Chamber chief calls for more details on exiting lockdown
The chief executive of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce has called on the Government to deliver a more detailed plan for the phased easing of lockdown restrictions and further information on financial support schemes.
Corin Crane spoke out after the release of the Government’s 50-page plan to exit the lockdown.
He said it was imperative the Government laid out a more detailed “road map” to help businesses plan their futures with some certainty.
Mr Crane added that business leaders had been crying out for further information for the phased easing of the restrictions, co-ordinated across the region and the UK and supported by clear guidance.
“This marks the first glimmer of light for our faltering economy, a phased and careful return to work is the only way to protect jobs and pay for future public services.
“Success will rest on flexibility within a framework; clear guidance which firms can adapt for their particular circumstances.
"However, businesses still need further clarity on what ‘Covid Secure’ looks like, but this guidance does help businesses to plan and prepare their workforce for a return to work," said Mr Crane.
He stressed that the coming weeks should see business, the Government and employee representatives working together as part of a national effort built on openness and trust.
“This is the only way to revive the UK economy and protect both lives and livelihoods, we all 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.
“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. Financial support will need to evolve for sectors moving at different speeds – some remaining in hibernation, while others get ready to open safely," said Mr Crane.
He empasised that the timing of further easing of restrictions must be guided by the public health evidence, but said that businesses needed their practical questions answered so they could plan to restart.
