Job Support Scheme: Concern Mounts At Covid Shutdown 'Ripple Effect'

The Labour Party and business groups have voiced concern at the "ripple effect" of Covid shutdowns that are expected to be announced on Monday.

On Friday, the chancellor said staff at UK companies told to close would get 67% of their wages from the government under the expanded Job Support Scheme.

But no specific help was announced for workers who may be indirectly affected - for example, those in supply chains.

The Treasury denied firms that are not fully closed would not receive help.

Labour claims close to one million workers will be at risk, including 500,000 people in the wedding industry, 369,000 in the sports industry, and 142,000 event caterers.

Shadow business secretary Ed Miliband said: "There are massive holes in the new safety net."

A spokesperson for the Treasury said: "We do not recognise these figures," adding that Labour had "incorrectly" listed some sectors as not benefitting from the scheme.

The spokesperson added: "Companies that are open can use the other element of the Job Support Scheme which is aimed at those able to open but at lower levels of demand.

"And of course they can also access the other help we have made available, including billions of pounds of grants, loans and tax cuts."

Source : jsportnewsaddess.blogspot.com