Get the Flu Vaccine - Press release from Alex Chalk MP

Alex Chalk MP has joined Parliamentarians across the country to highlight the benefits of getting a flu jab this winter, as the Government launches its drive to vaccine 30 million people. 

As readers will be aware, new restrictions have been put in place to help address the spread of the virus. Pubs, restaurants and other hospitality will have to close by 10pm, table service will be mandatory, and the number of people allowed at weddings has been halved.  

At the beginning of this week, the new “rule of six” for social gatherings came into effect. I regret that these onerous restrictions have proved necessary, because I realise how much disruption and even heartache they cause. But I also accept that there was no realistic choice.  

"Let me begin my stating that I entirely understand why concerns have been expressed about this Bill.

I meet regularly with Hospital Trust managers (via Zoom) to discuss Gloucestershire’s response to the pandemic.  

On Friday I again challenged the leadership about their temporary closure of Cheltenham A&E.  

I am delighted that the Government has this week announced an additional £4.4million to upgrade local A&E facilities ahead of the winter.  

I’m delighted that the vision for Cheltenham as a cyber centre, first set out in 2014, has received another boost with the Government’s announcement of over £4m in funding for the town.

The UK is on the cusp of a £2bn cycling revolution – and Cheltenham can be part of it. 

I am delighted this week to hear the Chancellor Rishi Sunak announce that almost 900,000 public sector workers are to get an above-inflation pay rise, including doctors and teachers.

Last Saturday, I walked down Regent Street past the Everyman Theatre. Tables had been laid out on the pavement in the glorious sunshine. Spotting me, one lady pointed to her slice of cake and called out with a big grin “I’m eating out to help out!”