The Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme opens for applications today (April 20).
British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) director general, Adam Marshall, said: “The opening of the Job Retention scheme is an important milestone for businesses, who can now begin to access the cash they need to pay their staff and protect livelihoods,” he said.
“The Government deserves credit for the speed, scale and flexibility of its response to the challenges facing our business communities. The focus should now be on delivering this support to firms on the ground.
“Our research indicates that two-thirds of firms have furloughed some portion of their workforce. With April’s payday approaching, it is essential that the application process is smooth and that payments are made as soon as possible. Any delay would exacerbate the cash crisis many companies are facing and could threaten jobs and businesses.”
Meanwhile, Marshall has welcomed the Government’s decision to extend furlough for another month, until the end of June.
“Businesses will be pleased that the Chancellor has responded to their calls for the Job Retention Scheme to be extended. This common sense move will provide many with the support they need to protect livelihoods as lockdown continues.”
