| Good evening, Who remembers, right back at the start of the first cases of Covid-19, what was said to be the key to stopping the pandemic in its tracks? At that time, we were told, test, test, test was the only way to get a grip of the virus. Yet here we are, a full seven months later, almost right back where we started, with rising cases and deaths as well as the constant threat to our livelihoods. We can argue about the effectiveness of the Government’s test and trace scheme and whether it should be handed over to local teams until the cows come home. One of the biggest problems that would not be solved by that is people not giving their correct details so they cannot be traced. I recently heard one person say they signed in as John Wayne and changed a digit of their phone number because they have no intention of isolating. So is it now time for all of us to carry ID cards? That would mean no entry to pubs, bars and restaurants without one - and it would also mean everyone’s details were correct and they would be traceable. Controversial yes, but perhaps vital? Let me know your views at [email protected] I would like to ask if those of you who do not yet subscribe to www.lep.co.uk would consider taking out a digital subscription. By doing so, you are supporting local, community journalism and helping to ensure that it survives and thrives. A subscription gives you unlimited access to the site, for all the news and sport you need - and more. You can subscribe here: https://www.lep.co.uk/subscriptions And thank you. Gillian Parkinson Editor | 
