Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, Shadow Home Secretary, commenting on today’s press conference chaired by the Home Secretary, said:

“It is clear that the vast majority of people are continuing to abide by the social distancing measures – and doing everything they can to protect the NHS and save lives. It’s also clear that the National Crime Agency, police, and other frontline public servants continue to do remarkable work, putting themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe and we owe them an enormous debt of gratitude.

“Those who perpetrate heinous crimes, such as abuse against children, must know there is no hiding place from law enforcement, even at a time of national crisis.

“Whilst we support the Government’s online awareness campaign on domestic abuse, it was disappointing, given the rise we are seeing in incidents, that specific funding for frontline services was still not forthcoming. Today’s update also still leaves other huge issues unaddressed, including how the government will meet its testing targets, on the urgent need for greater provision of PPE for frontline staff, and on the publication of an exit strategy.”