Following the wave of reduced income and cancelled bookings for firms in the hospitality and leisure sector, the Chancellor has announced a £1bn fund to support the industry.
The announcement of Plan B measures to combat the new Covid Omicron variant has seen pubs, restaurants, hotels and attractions face significant cancellations and reduced trade. This comes at a time of year crucial to many of these businesses.
The Chamber network has been lobbying to ensure support is made available to the hospitality and leisure sector. The British Chambers of Commerce has spoken directly to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, to provide case studies of the impact the Government’s measures have had on businesses.
Responding to calls to protect the sector, the Chancellor announced a £1bn fund which includes cash grants of up to £6,000 per premises for each eligible firm.
There is also an extra £30m for theatres and museums, and help with the cost of sick pay for some firms.
Geoff Mason, Policy Manager at the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce said:
“The Chamber network has been lobbying for support to be given to businesses affected by the announcement of Plan B. It is excellent news that the Chancellor has engaged with the problems we have highlighted and we welcome the grants for hospitality and leisure firms. These are businesses that have seen serious reductions in trade and high rates of cancelled bookings.
“If restrictions continue for much longer or are further tightened, the level of support will have to extended and widened to cover other areas of the economy affected by new measures. There must also be some flexibility to respond to any evidence of other sectors who have suffered as a result of Government guidance.
“We still need to see the full detail on eligibility and how quickly payments will get out to the businesses that need help. Businesses are struggling now and can’t wait for lengthy delays.
If your business has been affected by the current Covid situation and you have any thoughts on the support being provided please get in touch with the Chamber’s policy manager: Click here to email
