Reacting to the Government’s announcement this week regarding updates to Covid-19 public health measures, Small Firms director, Sven Spollen Behrens, has said that many businesses operating in the experience economy are concerned with the decision not to allow full capacity indoor events to take place.
"While we welcome the removal of certain restrictions, Government needs to engage with industry representatives to address outstanding issues when developing sector specific guidance," he said.
"Business recognises that public health remains paramount and have continually strived to ensure public health measures are respected and upheld.
"Many businesses in the experience economy had developed extensive plans to open fully on the October Bank Holiday, with money already paid to suppliers and staff rostered. Return to offices on a staggered basis is well advanced and must continue in line with previously laid out criteria.
"It is not appropriate, in light of this week’s announcement, to taper off fiscal supports. The closing off of the EWSS, the PUP, tax warehousing and Commercial Rates waivers, must now be revisited.
"The decision by Government to increase the role that antigen testing will play is very welcome, and will become another tool to chase down infection," Mr Behrens added.
