• TO the government: one battle at a time – tackle and resolve the current coronavirus pandemic, first, save the economy too, then when all that is done, start EU negotiations.

The Brexit transition period must now be extended by the maximum two years currently allowable.

We need a minimum of 12 to 18 months just to begin to recover from the health, social, and economic damage caused by COVID-19.

The economic damage alone, including the gigantic sums of debt involved means we’ll be paying for this for many years to come.

Welcome to more austerity. No-deal-Australian style, or otherwise, from January 1 2021 is not in the United Kingdom’s best interest.

It would be an act of sabotage to the full recovery of the UK from the pandemic. An act of madness!

Extend the transition period now. Make it clear why it is necessary. Act decisively. The EU will agree it. Extend to January 2023. And give the country a chance!

NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED