EASINGTON MP Grahame Morris has tested positive for Covid.

In a statement on social media, the Labour MP said he is currently self-isolating and that as a result his vote on the Government's plans to increase National Insurance contributions will not be recorded.

He said: "Unfortunately, I have recently tested positive for Covid so I am currently required to self-isolate. The proxy voting system whereby an MP could cast a vote on behalf of another has now been suspended for those who are self-isolating.

"As a result, my vote on this Government's plans to increase NIC will not be recorded this evening. Under the Govt's plans, hardworking families and businesses will be left to shoulder the vast majority of the burden, which should fall on those with the broadest shoulders.

"Taxes will have to rise in order to fund social care, but this is not by any means the fairest way to do it. I would have voted against the Government's plans to penalise young people and low earners by increasing NI contributions.

"The pandemic is not over. Thousands are still testing positive for Covid every day. I think it is outrageous that the voices of Easington and my East Durham constituents cannot be heard or recorded tonight."

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