Lib Dems: Brexit must be delayed to focus on novel coronavirus crisis

Today, Acting Leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey has called on the Prime Minister to suspend Brexit talks and seek a delay to the transition period so that the government can focus efforts and resources on the developing Covid-19 crisis. He said in the letter "this request is not about ... past debates. This request is designed to help you and the country navigate our way through the current crisis". Ed Davey also called for Boris Johnson to ensure the UK is present at vital information sharing meetings with other EU leaders and health ministers.  Acting Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Ed Davey said: "At a time of unprecedented strain on our NHS, our economy and millions of jobs across the country, the government must take immediate steps to limit the pressure and impact. "Delaying the Brexit talks and the deadline for the end of the transition period is key to this. I am urging Boris Johnson to do the sensible thing and put Brexit on hold. "We must focus whatever resources we have on stopping the spread of this virus and protecting the most vulnerable. "Coordination with our closest neighbours will also be vital to tackling this virus. Johnson must ensure the UK is present in EU health ministers’ daily briefings as the situation continues to develop."