Chamber Response to Chancellor’s Statement on New Measures
Date published:
Jonathan Walker, director of policy, North East England Chamber of Commerce said:
“We’ve been clear that previously announced support measures were not sufficient to protect jobs and businesses subject to new restrictions. Therefore, we’re pleased that the Chancellor has listened to us and accepted this argument.
“Government has also recognised that we’ve been under tough restrictions in the North East for many weeks now and the backdating of support will help many struggling businesses. However, we are concerned that significant economic damage has already been done. The new support will help going forward, but we still need a bold strategy to ‘level up’ our region to stop Covid from further exacerbating inequalities.
“While we welcome this new financial package, businesses are tired of the constant uncertainty and secrecy surrounding Tier 3 restrictions and negotiations. We need sufficient resources locally and an effective test and trace system to tackle Covid outbreaks early, alongside meaningful engagement with the region’s business community.”