Medway Council has set up a cross-party taskforce to tackle the coronavirus crisis.

Conservative council leader Alan Jarrett has joined forces with Vince Maple, Labour group leader, to explore ways of dealing with the pandemic.

A meeting was held on Friday with representatives from both parties to discuss collective action.

The authority has already cancelled major events such as the Sweeps and Dickens festivals. Passengers will be able to use their bus passes before 9am which will enable elderly and vulnerable residents to get to shops opening early because of the virus.

It has also closed libraries following the Prime Minister's announcement to the nation calling for a lockdown on all public gatherings.

Cllr Jarrett said: “Medway Council is determined to operate as close to a business-as-usual model as circumstances will permit, as it is our responsibility as community leaders. Therefore, it was positive for Cllr Maple and I to agree on a move to smaller size committees until further notice, which will allow us to continue to carry out our duty to serve the people of Medway to the very highest standards possible.

“I think we can all agree that these are exceptional and challenging circumstances, and therefore now is the time, regardless of political persuasion, for us to stand together to work in the interests of Medway’s people.”

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Cllr Maple said there was no set agenda but the closure of schools and public health would be a priority.

He said: “I’ve been reassured that there will be leniency at this time for those who are struggling to pay their council tax.

“We will hear more from the council soon about supporting small businesses and more options to help residents financially are being explored.”

“I am still anxious to address other extremely pressing issues, such as setting up a hardship fund as other councils have done and urge residents to get in touch with me about their concerns around how we tackle Covid-19 in Medway."

The council will be liaising closely with other groups such NHS representatives and the police.

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