Have faith, stay united, heed advice

They need to believe in their leaders and in the actions taken on their behalf.

In many respects over the past four years this Assembly has not earned that trust. Riven by in-fighting, it has looked hesitant and unfocused.

Only in one respect has it shone: in its preparations for Brexit. The message has been clear and consistent, the communications excellent and the decisions based on solid evidence.

Much of that good work is paying dividends now. In an unexpected way, Brexit has done the island a favour by forcing us to look at supply lines, resilience, infrastructure, public law.

The extreme circumstances were not what we imagined they would be, but the lessons learned have been invaluable.

The same planning skills which have been exercised since the 2016 referendum are now being put to use to combat a much more potent threat.

It helps that many of the same people are involved. Senior civil servants of genuine ability have formed a formidable team with medical experts.

At the front, communicating the message with clarity and conviction, is the Chief Minister. As with Brexit, under the most intense pressure, he has shown leadership at a time when the islands sorely need it.

Yesterday’s press conference was streamed live on Facebook and filmed by the media. Those islanders who watched it saw a united team on top of the details and confident in their planning. It was reassuring and informative.

The data was nevertheless forbidding. Within weeks, the islands are heading into a dark tunnel from which it may take months to emerge.

But there is reason to have faith. The leadership team have shown they are willing to take bold action when it fits the evidence.

There are those who will question each decision. And a debate about the best course of action is perfectly legitimate.

But when it comes to travel, hygiene and social contacts islanders need to have confidence, stay united – and follow the advice to the letter.