We all agree, now is not the time for political point-scoring–we must be doing everything in our power to save lives.

That’s why we need to talk about Brexit.

It has come to light that the government missed the offer from Europe to participate in the joint procurement schemes for urgently needed medical supplies like ventilators, overalls and masks.

I am pleased to hear ministers have begun talks with the EU - but it is not enough. Our selfless NHS staff urgently need this equipment to care for us and safeguard themselves.

We should be working with Europe’s Early Warning and Response System for disease control across borders. The UK withdrew from EWRS this year, despite warnings from the NHS that this would make it harder to tackle a pandemic.

That’s why I’m supporting Best for Britain’s campaign to extend the Brexit transition period until after we have dealt with the coronavirus. With heroes in the NHS working tirelessly to save us, we should do our part to ensure they have the equipment and and international support they need.

Norman Willcox

Weymouth