The Government will pay two thirds of people’s salaries of businesses that may be asked to close due to lockdown conditions.
He said that the scheme will provide a safety net for business the Chancellor said.
The scheme starts on 1st November and will last for six months
Greater Manchester’s Nightime Economy advisor Sacha Lord tweeted
“Slightly bemused this package starts on 1 Nov. They’ve clearly forgotten they closed entry to existing scheme in June. If the North locks down on Monday, that’s 3 weeks without any financial support for those who took PM’s advice to ‘get off furlough and get back to work’.
CBI chair Dame Carolyn Fairbairn, said:
“The steep rise in infections in some areas means new restrictions to curb numbers feel unavoidable.
“The Chancellor’s more generous job support for those under strict restrictions should cushion the blow for the most affected and keep more people in work.
“But many firms, including pubs and restaurants, will still be hugely disappointed if they have to close their doors again after doing so much to keep customers and staff safe.
“In addition to financial support, continual transparency around decision-making is crucial. A consistent and open strategy for living with COVID-19 through the autumn and winter will help protect lives and livelihoods.”
Sacha Lord added
It’s clear that they’ve scrambled around as a result of the backlash yesterday and straight talking from our Mayor, Andy Burnham, but going forward the Government must improve their strategies, planning and communications and announce packages at the same time as restrictions.
To continually announce closures, with zero regard for the businesses, and no information about financial support until days later is, at best, cruel.
I’m still concerned for the 700,000 freelancers in the sector. They have no financial support, no opportunity for furlough and have had no work since March. Hospitality is the public face of our sector but there is a huge ecology behind it, from suppliers, lighting companies, taxi drivers, security, performers and musicians. We need to continue to press to make sure they are not forgotten.”
