Chambers call for clarity on easing of restrictions, guidance for firms and business support schemes
PRIME Minister Boris Johnson has urged people who can't work from home to return to work signalling the start of the easing of lockdown restrictions.
However, there is concern over mixed messages and the divergence in guidance and messaging between the UK government and the administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
In the coming days, British Chambers we will be seeking:
- Further details on the phased easing of restrictions
- The publication of guidance that firms need to follow in order to keep their employees and customers safe – including use of PPE.
- Clarity of the future of the business support schemes which have saved so many livelihoods in recent weeks.
Commenting on the Prime Minister’s address and next stage of Coronavirus response, in which he set out a conditional plan for the next phase of the response to Covid-19, a BCC spokesman said: “Businesses share the Prime Minister's ambition to see more people return safely to work over the coming weeks.
“Companies will do everything they can to protect employees and customers, maintain social distancing and operate successfully as more sections of the economy are permitted to reopen.
“Businesses will need to see detailed plans for the phased easing of restrictions, co-ordinated with all nations across the UK and supported by clear guidance. It is imperative that companies have detailed advice on what will need to change in the workplace, including clarity on the use of PPE.
“Firms will also need to know that government support schemes, which have helped save millions of jobs in recent weeks, will continue for as long as they are needed so that they can plan ahead with confidence.
“The timing of further easing of restrictions must be guided by the public health evidence, but businesses need their practical questions answered so they can plan to restart, rebuild and renew.”
