Last weekend the behaviour of a criminal minority seriously undermined the very important message that racism has no place in our society, and that black lives matter - because all lives matter.

We must not accept violent attacks on our police officers, and cruelty to loyal service horses; nor disrespect for our great national monuments like The Cenotaph and the statue of Sir Winston Churchill.

I was in Westminster this week to hear the statement from the Home Secretary and I agree with her that these acts of thuggery must face justice. I have also spoken to the Policing Minister about what measures need to be taken, including on the illegal and unsafe mass gatherings taking place without any heed to social distancing.

You may have noticed that ‘R’ rates for the South West have been in the news. I would like to reassure you, and so would the Director of Public Health for Dorset, that local risk is assessed using a number of factors. It is not possible to calculate R rates at very local levels, especially in Dorset where the number of actual cases is so low. If we adhere to social distancing, strict handwashing, and the latest advice on the use of face coverings, it is not only safe but also important to take our first step towards recovery and normality.

I welcomed the Government’s announcement that places of worship are to reopen for private prayer from 15th June. In light of this, the Church of England has issued a statement that funerals may also take place in churches from that date, something I have pressed very hard for.

Finally, it’s Carers Week from 8-14 June, recognising the invaluable contribution made by unpaid carers, and I would like to say a personal thank you to the many carers in our Bridport communities for all they do.

CHRIS LODER

MP FOR WEST DORSET