Chamber joins MPs to discuss stage four of Covid roadmap

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce joined two of the region 's MPs and key stakeholders from across the region to discuss the final stage of the government 's roadmap for unlocking the economy on 19 July.

The private roundtable also featured SMEs from some of the hardest-hit sectors including hospitality, retail and travel.

They had the opportunity to speak to MPs Liam Byrne and Steve McCabe (pictured) about the impact the pandemic has had on their businesses.

Representatives from Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands Combined Authority were also in attendance.

Chamber members raised a number of concerns in the meeting including the cash pressures firms are facing - particularly in the build-up of debt - the uncertainty around consumer confidence moving forward and recruitment difficulties in the hospitality sector.

Businesses also highlighted the difficulties they are facing due to the rising Covid rates which have increased the frequency with which employees are having to self-isolate as a result of notifications from the NHS Test & Trace app.

This is causing major disruption for businesses, with many having to close due to the lack of staffing.

The discussion forms part of the GBCC 's Covid-19 lobbying and campaign activity to give Chamber members a voice and platform.

Raj Kandola, head of policy at the GBCC, said: “Whereas there has been a general sigh of relief that Stage 4 of reopening has been given the go ahead, the discussion at the recent roundtable underlined the serious issues that a number of businesses are still facing.

“Crippling cash pressures, issues in hiring staff and uncertainty around workplace guidance were frequently highlighted as persistent problems despite the recent relaxation of national restrictions.

“As part of our wider campaign around keeping business moving throughout the pandemic, we will use this feedback to shape our latest lobbying output and continue to work with local MPs, the WMCA and Birmingham City Council to ensure these concerns are recognised and absorbed by Government. ”