THE MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale has gone into self-isolation.

Tim Farron released a statement explaining he was taking the necessary precautions after a family member displayed coronavirus symptoms.

Current government guidelines advise that if someone you live with has a cough and/or a temperature you should self-isolate for 14 days.

Mr Farron explained one of his children had been sent home from school with a temperature and so the family had decided to comply with current advice and self- isolate. Although experiencing a “chesty cough” the MP does not believe he or his family have the virus.

“It is so important to follow government advice, especially someone in my position," he said.

“ We think we are well but we don’t know that and testing should be prioritised for NHS staff. We are not a priority.

“My work takes me to lots of places and I meet lots of people. I could infect someone vulnerable.”

Despite self- isolating Mr Farron will continue to work from home:

“There’s a lot to do and I’m willing to do it from my kitchen table," he said.

The MP has already spoken to Colin Cox, Cumbrian director of public health, to ascertain the current local situation.

“Hospitals locally are coping but soon they will be under pressure," he said. "We have to protect the vulnerable and the NHS.”

Mr Farron also has concerns about support for social care.

“If people can’t be cared for at home they’ll... to use that horrible term, bed block. I will continue ensuring social care gets the support it needs.”

Advice surgeries will still take place by telephone,something the MP’s team were planning on starting before Mr Farron’s self-isolation. The MP is determined to use all the technology he has to continue to support the local area and ensure businesses get the appropriate financial support they need during the coronavirus pandemic.

“There is a lot of deep concern and fear, but also people being their better selves and showing compassion and kindness and I think that should be focused on.”