Chamber demands financial support for worst-affected sector

GREATER Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has demanded action from Government to help firms hit by in the new ‘Plan B’ restrictions.

The Chamber has called for a review of the need for financial support for businesses likely to suffer a drop in demand.

It also said it was vital practical advice was given to those companies expected to implement a Covid pass policy and the Business Rates Relief Fund should be rolled out before Christmas so local authorities could help those impacted.

Long term, it is calling for a reduction of VAT in place beyond March to help those hospitality and nonessential retailers likely to suffer as a result of lower footfall in city centres.

Chamber chief executive Henrietta Brealey said: “These measures are being implemented at very short notice during a critical trading period for our non-essential retail, hospitality, live events and travel industries and their supply chains. These sectors are still recovering from past lockdowns and will be among those most impacted by Plan B and any associated falls in footfall or consumer confidence coming from them.

“It is critical the Government steps up to support impacted businesses.

“The action plan that we have set out would offer a short-term, proportionate and practical lifeline to those anxious about what the future may hold for their business. If the last 21 months have taught us anything, it’s that the Covid-19 situation can change rapidly – sometimes for the upside as well as the down.”

Head of policy Raj Kandola added: “The uncertainty generated by the spread of the Omicron variant coupled with mixed messaging from the Government on tightening restrictions put a number of businesses in a difficult position. It’s essential the Government uses existing measures within its armoury to target those businesses that need the most support across a range of sectors.

“Wary of facing another ‘pingdemic’, it seems the Government will place their faith on further testing to avoid length isolation periods – businesses have a part to play in this process and bringing back free test kits for businesses would play a huge role in fulfilling this key objective.”