Keir Starmer urges Boris Johnson to form ‘national consensus’ on easing coronavirus lockdown

Sir Keir Starmer has urged the Prime Minister to form a “national consensus” on the next phase of the Government’s coronavirus response as ministers work on plans to ease the lockdown.

Sir Keir backed the extension of the strict lockdown measures ahead of talks with Boris Johnson this week and promised to work “constructively” with the Government.

But the Labour leader continued his criticism of Mr Johnson’s handling of the crisis, saying ministers have been behind on testing, protective equipment and implementing the lockdown.

He said: “We want to support the Government to get this right and that is why we need a national consensus on what happens next.

“Our priority is protecting the public’s health and saving lives. That is why we supported the lockdown and again support the restrictions staying in place at this time.

“However, we need to be honest with the public about the challenges ahead. We are in this for the long haul.

“It is imperative that the Government is properly planning for what happens next and properly supporting our NHS and social care services.”

The Prime Minister is due to set out a new strategy on Sunday with more details on how restrictions will be eased following the next three-week review of arrangements on Thursday.

However, plans to help Brits return to work have already begun to emerge, with reduced hot-desking and the closure of office lifts among the measures being put forward.

Sir Keir acknowledged public concerns about returning to work after more than six weeks of being told to stay home to protect themselves, loved ones and the NHS.

“People rightly need confidence it’s safe before they go back out to work, travel or use public services,” said the Labour leader.

Labour has outlined seven principles that it wants the Government to consider when planning for the next phase.

These include enforcing a “national safety standard” for businesses and schools, setting an “ambitious target” for contact tracing and introducing bespoke support for individuals and industries facing huge challenges, such as the hospitality sector.

A national plan to ensure supply chains for protective equipment for key workers are guaranteed and a “structured approach to easing and tightening restrictions” must also be formed, Labour said.

Ministers must legally review the current measures by Thursday, May 7.