Letter: Covid-19 figures tar England as the Sick Man of Europe

Other news last week was not so good. We saw the country pass the grim milestone of 50,000 Covid-related deaths (many think the true figure is nearer 65,000), and on Thursday there was the report of the highest ever number of new infections (33,470).The resulting crisis in the NHS was laid bare. We are truly the Sick Man of Europe. The Government’s woeful mismanagement of every aspect of the pandemic does not inspire confidence in its ability to deliver a mass vaccination programme.

Moreover, in January the country faces post-Brexit chaos. A pro-European, pro-Irish President-elect in Washington leaves post-Brexit Britain much weaker and more isolated.The Government should immediately apply for an extension to the transition period and adopt a more realistic approach to the trade talks with the EU to ensure a deal is reached. There is still time – just.

Jane Barrett, Buxton

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