Coronavirus in the UK: Labour scraps all meetings and campaigning, asking supporters to help vulnerable people instead Suspending local party activity, Jeremy Corbyn called on party members to ensure those who need support are ‘not left to cope alone’

The Labour Party has instructed all local parties to cancel their meetings and campaigning activities, after the government agreed to postpone local and mayoral elections scheduled for May.

Constituency Labour Parties (CLPs) across the country have been directed to “cancel all meetings” and “suspend campaigning” due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The party’s chair, Jennie Formby, said: “We are now advising that CLPs cancel all meetings and suspend campaigning.”

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In an email to party members, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn wrote: “Instead of canvassing and campaigning, I would like Labour members to get involved in supporting vulnerable people in our communities – ensuring this is done safely and on the basis of public health advice.

“The labour movement, rooted as it is in our communities, can help to ensure those who need support the most are not left to cope alone.

“Please speak to your friends and family about what you can do, and look online and social media for organisations already organising volunteer groups.”

The call comes after the charity Homeless Link said local communities must help to stop the spread of coronavirus among the homeless.

Leadership events cancelled

Labour has also cancelled the event to announce the new leader of the Labour Party on 4 April, and leadership and deputy hustings, including tomorrow’s BAME hustings.

The Welsh Labour conference and Scottish Labour Women’s conference have been postponed.

Parliament is now required to pass legislation to suspend local elections, which were due to take place in less than eight week’s time.

The peak of coronavirus cases is predicted to affect the UK in between ten and 14 weeks.

Science-led approach

On Friday amid criticism of the government’s response in tackling coronavirus, Downing Street signalled that mass gatherings such as sports events and festivals will be banned, and widespread home working implemented.

Mr Corbyn said: “I fully understand the growing public concern around the virus and the number of cases, and legitimate questions are being asked about why the UK government’s advice differs from that of neighbouring countries.

“Labour has supported a science-led approach, while recognising that leaves room for more than one possible response. So we are asking the government to publish its scientific modelling and explain transparently the conclusions it has drawn. We believe it is vital that the government maintains public confidence.

“We also believe the government must take more comprehensive steps to ensure insecure, self-employed and unprotected workers are not forced to choose between health and hardship, and are able to take time off work and self-isolate if necessary, in the interests of us all.”