We must seek a Brexit extension to protect our frontline NHS workers - YEP letters

Robert Gosling, Wakefield

The outbreak of Covid-19 has had a tremendous impact on our NHS and our economy, leaving many people vulnerable.

The simple truth is that our NHS cannot cope with the effects of leaving the EU without a trade deal in place and Covid-19.

The discussions with the EU have, as a result of the pandemic, been delayed, and also have to be conducted remotely.

I am, therefore, increasingly concerned that a trade deal will not be finalised, and we will be faced with a no-deal Brexit.

Leaving the EU without a deal would cause:

Delays in importing medicines and medical equipment, including vital PPE;

A weakening of the public health response, including the response to pandemics when we leave EU schemes without agreeing to partnerships with crucial EU bodies;

Disruption of patient care due to the ending of reciprocal healthcare agreements.

Most people in the UK support extending the transition period. But this isn’t about Brexit. It isn’t about who voted Leave or Remain. It is about doing what is in the national interest. We must do what is right for our country in order to protect our economy and our NHS.

Our doctors and nurses are on the front line, fighting this virus everyday. They are risking their lives to protect the public. We should seek an extension to the Brexit transition period, so we can focus on getting the best deal possible and protecting our front-line workers in the NHS.