British Chambers comment on PM's announcement of next steps in virus battle

Prime Minister Boris Johnson - further easing of restrictions.

PRIME Minister Boris Johnson today set out the next steps in easing England’s Coronavirus response.

British Chambers of Commerce have welcomed the news. A spokesman said: “Companies, in discussion with their employees, will decide how and when to return to offices safely. To take those decisions, businesses need crystal-clear official guidance.

“Firms will be weighing up how they want to work in future. Many have seen benefits to productivity and work-life balance over recent months, and will want to keep elements of their new normal. For many employees, returning to the workplace is contingent on schools reopening, the availability of wraparound care and the capacity of public transport.

“Businesses should be able to offset the investments they make to ensure their premises are Covid-secure against their tax bill, which would help many to return to workplaces over the coming months.”

“Businesses that have so far been unable to open will be pleased to finally have a timetable for reopening so they can plan ahead.  Government must consider what further support they can offer to firms that will need to remain closed into the autumn, beyond the end-date for government support schemes and many businesses’ cash reserves.”

“While tackling the public health emergency must be the priority, further local lockdowns will be a hammer blow to business communities trying to get back on their feet.

“Local lockdowns must be made more targeted, with clear statistical triggers and an exit strategy to help businesses plan ahead. More financial support must be available to the hardest hit firms forced to close for an additional period.”

“Business will welcome an increased target for testing as we move into a new phase of managing the pandemic.

“Only a truly comprehensive test and trace system that works across the UK will boost business, staff and consumer confidence, which is the key to securing our economic recovery.”