Sandwell Council said it will not take any court action for debt against residents during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Council said the announcement would help take pressure off people during a difficult time.

Cllr Yvonne Davies, leader of the council, said: ‘We understand that this is very stressful for everyone and our primary concern right now is for the people of Sandwell and how we can support them in this very challenging situation.

‘So we have taken the decision to suspend all our court action for debt and will not be pursuing people while this situation lasts.’

Plans to let local authorities conduct their council meetings remotely are being considered by the Government, The MJ has reported today.