Coronavirus: Liberal ideals must not be forgotten amidst crisis – Robert Aldridge

We need to be on our guard to make sure that power and freedom is returned to the people once the coronavirus threat has receded, writes Robert Aldridge

The Royal Mile is virtually deserted as people are asked to socially distance themselves amid the coronavirus outbreak (Picture: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

As a Liberal I find the new draconian powers assumed by government both uncomfortable and disconcerting. Of course we are at a time of national emergency which has needed exceptional measures and we all need to play our part in minimising deaths and helping the NHS manage in a really horrible time. It is the temporary loss of some of our basic freedoms which helps us realise just how valuable they are.

It was reassuring that virtually every political party in the Scottish Parliament took the same view that we need to return to our liberal democracy as soon as practical. But some things are likely to change in the medium term and we need to be on our guard once the crisis has receded to make sure that power and freedom is returned to the people. We need to make sure we do not sleep walk into a more authoritarian society in the aftermath of the crisis.

For now we all need to focus on staying well and safe and keeping those who are more vulnerable well and safe.

Robert Aldridge is the Lib Dem group leader at Edinburgj City Council (Picture: Jane Barow)

I have just emerged from seven days of self-isolation having displayed some mild symptoms (probably just a feverish cold) but have been overwhelmed by the generosity of neighbours and friends helping with shopping and so on.

I am now rediscovering the wonderful Cammo Wilderness Park, a short walk from my house, for my daily exercise. We are very lucky that Edinburgh has so many green spaces where we can exercise keeping our social distance!

I have been impressed, not only by our NHS staff and carers but also our very own council staff. I know they have been working their socks off to keep essential services running in very difficult circumstances. If things take a little longer during this unsettled period, please cut them some slack.

If you have routine inquiries which are not urgent please hold them until the worst of the crisis is over.

For those who are able to go online the council updates its advice on its website every day. For example you could find out there that glass recycling has been suspended for the time being.

The crisis has brought out the best in local people with a surge of people wanting to volunteer. Could I suggest that people contact Volunteer Edinburgh if they are wanting to help, who can give really valuable advice on how to make the effort as productive as possible and pointers to keep volunteers safe.

Sadly this has also brought out people who are out to scam some of the most vulnerable. Please advise anyone you know who might be vulnerable to be wary and to check with friends or family if they think anything is suspicious.

When the dust settles after we are through the worst of this it will be time to work out what could have been done better. We can check what actually happened against the assumptions in our emergency plans and be better prepared if something similar happens in future. I think we are all aware of shortcomings in getting personal protection equipment to front line staff on time, some mixed messages from central government and a range of other issues.

Now is the time to focus on simply getting through this as best we can. Let’s build on the positives in our communities, and thank all our essential workers for the superb work they are doing on our behalf.

So please be patient, be safe, be well and be grateful to the frontline staff.

Robert Aldridge is the Lib Dem group leader at Edinburgh City Council