Greater Manchester’s Night Time Economy Adviser Sacha Lord has said that the Government’s decision to advice people to avoid theatre’s restaurants and bars has created a catastrophic period of uncertainly for the hospitality sector and staff.
In a statement issued tonight, Lord said
“First and foremost, I am overwhelmingly disappointed with the measures today. Greater Manchester’s bars, clubs, restaurants and nightlife are the heart of our region and I know how devastating this latest news will be to all owners.”
The uncertainty this measure has placed on the hospitality sector is likely to be crippling and I know most, if not all, operators will currently be feeling scared for their futures. The move to advise customers to avoid pubs and clubs, rather than implementing an outright closure, combined with no end date, will affect the rights that venue owners have with regards to insurance claims. I am in touch with my equivalent Night Economy Advisers across the world and we are one of the only countries not to provide a specific timeframe.
With this in mind, I will be actively talking to Government to try to ensure businesses are able to protect themselves and survive through these trying times, including being able to claim on business interruption insurance. I know this will be imperative for some operators, and I want you to know I am and will continue to fight hard to support you. You are not alone. “
He is urging all restaurants, bars, cafes and hospitality venues across Greater Manchester to organise and prepare takeaway and delivery facilities if possible, and to announce these services across their social channels and is encouraging the sale of gift cards.
For bookings cancellations, he says, please offer the choice to postpone or purchase gift cards instead.
Thirdly, he says, do not stop talking. Keep planning and keep taking bookings for later this year. Ask customers if they would be willing to pay up front in return for discounts.
Meanwhile The shadow digital, culture and media secretary, Tracy Brabin, has said:
It is a tragedy for any arts venue when they have no choice but to close. From the West End to community theatres up and down the country, many artists, actors, stage crew, producers and other workers face a terrible time ahead. It’s unacceptable that the Tories seem to be prioritising the needs of the insurance industry in what could be an existential crisis for our sector.
The prime minister must urgently clarify that theatres, music venues, and other organisations in the creative industries affected by his statement can claim insurance. The same goes for the UK’s incredible hospitality sector. These industries are part of the lifeblood of the nation and Labour will fight for their future.
Kate Nicholls, of UK Hospitality, said: ‘This is catastrophic for businesses and jobs. The Government has effectively shut the hospitality industry without any support.
