We need to talk about Brexit.

Not to score any political points but, because right now, all this country’s energy must be directed towards doing whatever we can to save lives.

The Government took a conscious decision not to participate in the joint EU procurement schemes for urgently needed medical supplies like ventilators, overalls and masks.

As a consequence, it then found itself at the bottom of the list for the vital Personal Protection Equipment leading to delays and shortages getting PPE to staff on the frontline.

Last week’s article in the Hexham Courant regarding Angela Murray-Hill’s fund raising efforts is testament to that fact.

I am pleased to hear ministers have begun talks with the EU - but it is not enough.

Our NHS staff urgently need this equipment to care for us and safeguard themselves.

My daughter is one of them.

She is working in London, the epicentre, as a nurse in the community.

Several other family members work in hospitals across the country.

As a mother, aunt and an ordinary member of the public, I am deeply concerned for their safety and their colleagues.

It is nonsensical that we are not working with Europe's Early Warning and Response System for disease control across borders.

The UK withdrew from EWRS this year despite warnings from the NHS that this would make it harder to tackle a pandemic.

Please support Best for Britain’s campaign to extend the Brexit transition period until after we have dealt with the coronavirus.

While those in the NHS work tirelessly to save our lives, we should do be doing whatever we can to ensure it has the equipment and international support it needs.

Right now, Brexit must surely take a back seat.

CAROL NUNAN

Hexham