Put well-being at the heart of lockdown strategy

Labour is urging the government to put well-being at the heart of its lockdown strategy, amid uncertainty from further restrictions.

With England poised to face further restrictions gyms, swimming pools and other sports face closure making it more difficult for people to exercise. Labour is calling for ministers to explain how they plan to help the public stay fit and healthy during this time.

The opposition party poses three questions:

Some sports and exercise clearly maintain social distancing. For example, outdoor tennis, outdoor swimming, outdoor running, golf. Will the government set out how facilities that support socially distant activity can be re-opened safely as soon as possible?

Sports bodies were asked to make submissions to Treasury some weeks ago. When will we hear the results of these funding bids?

On team sports, these have been crucial for both physical and mental health. Will the government work with us to create an exit plan from the second lockdown to make sure that any pause is temporary, and as short as possible? Also, will they consider the rules relating to under 18s given the impact on child health?

Alison McGovern, Labour’s Shadow Sports Minister, said: “We want the government to put well-being at the heart of their plans for handling the coronavirus. We know how incredible sport is for both mental and physical health – both of which are at risk as we face further restrictions. It cannot be an afterthought in this time of crisis.”