Covid-19: Businesses must be given time to plan for any restrictions - Chamber
Business leaders today urged the government to provide clarity on Christmas restrictions and Covid-19 support for businesses, following the surge in new cases.
Last night, the Prime Minister reiterated that the government “won 't rule anything out ” and “won 't hesitate ” to introduce further restrictions.
However, there are widespread reports that new restrictions could be implemented between Christmas and New Year.
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce said the government must give businesses time to plan for any new measures - and bring forward support for those who have been hardest hit.
Henrietta Brealey (pictured), chief executive of the GBCC, said: “Businesses need a more open and honest conversation with government about what the coming weeks could involve and how government will work with businesses to curb Covid spread without unnecessarily damaging livelihoods.
“There was nothing in last night 's statement to demonstrate a real recognition of, and plan for addressing, the very significant strains already facing key sectors of the economy - travel and tourism, live events and hospitality and their associated supply chains.
“Impacted businesses are coming in to this period with depleted resources and increased costs on everything from energy to produce. They are losing peak Christmas trade from collapsing consumer demand and vaguely worded government advice on 'thinking carefully ' before socialising.
“They don 't currently clarity on whether they should plan, and stock up for, New Year celebrations - even at this depleted level of demand - or if further restrictions are imminent.
“The largest local authorities in our area have warned us that there are no discretionary funds remaining for supporting businesses facing Covid hardship this winter.
“A whole lot of effort and money that has gone in to helping businesses both play their part in managing the spread of Covid through lockdowns and being ready to reopen to enable a swift economic recovery after.
“We urge the Government not to let the good work that 's been done to date go to waste and urgently bring forward support for the most impacted businesses and clarity on their short-term plans this winter. ”
Marija Erzen, co-founder and director of Chamber member Solutions2, said firms operating in the events industry could be left facing “difficult decisions ” in the coming months if action isn 't taken.
Marija said: “Having just got back on our feet after an incredibly tough two years, the lack of support that Government is providing to businesses in the events sector - who are being devastated by increased cancellations and damaged public confidence - is a very bitter pill to swallow.
“Support which was promised as a lifeline to the sector seven months ago in the form of the Business Rates Relief Fund is yet to be rolled out, and lost revenue from cancellations and postponements mean that we will all have difficult decisions to make in the coming months in order to protect our business.
“We urgently need the Government to outline a clear road map through the pandemic and inform businesses across the country in advance of any measures that will be introduced to ensure that we are able to adapt and continue our recovery. Without this, and without robust financial support, many businesses will not survive this winter. ”