Businesses and public get ready for full lockdown on Thursday for a month
Firms call for support to survive as thousands go out shopping
BUSINESS leaders and politicians have reacted to the announcement of another national lockdown with pleas for cash and clarity – while the public, apparently, went shopping.
Long queues formed outside Costco in Leicestershire on Sunday, ahead of the closure of all but essential stores for at least a month.
East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Confirmation we are going into a second national lockdown is hugely disappointing news for businesses that have done everything in their power to adapt and operate safely, and is a clear signal of the government’s failure to create the world-class test and trace system it had promised us.
“Business and market confidence have been hit hard by the unclear, stop-start approach taken by government over the past eight months, with little end in sight.
“While we welcome the extension of the furlough scheme, this may not give sufficient confidence to employers to preserve jobs in the long term.
“It’s also important to note this support is aimed at individuals rather than businesses. It’s crucial the government comes up with a quick response to plug this income gap for businesses.
“We are also concerned about the lasting impact this lockdown could have on the high street and hospitality sector. Many businesses were just beginning to get back on their feet and gearing up for the beginning of the festive period to offset the losses incurred, but this month-long lockdown may be one setback too many.
“The economy must not be allowed to grind to a halt as it did earlier this year. In sectors that can remain open, such as construction and manufacturing, it’s vital they receive full encouragement to do so.
“What is clear is that this lockdown should not continue any longer than necessary. The government must use this period to fix the ailing test and trace system once and for all in order to finally take the brakes off our economy.
“Business communities will judge the restrictions on whether they are clear and evidence-based – and on whether they are able to see when these restrictions may come to an end.”
Rutland and Melton Conservative MP Alicia Kearns called on the government to make children under the age of one exempt from restrictions on how many people can meet up outdoors.
She said: “As we prepare to go into a second lockdown, it’s important that we support new mums. I remember the loneliness.
“That’s why I’m calling for underones to be exempted from the two person outdoor meeting rule, so two new mums can meet together in lockdown.”
Labour Leicester South MP Jon Ashworth tweeted on Saturday: “Boris Johnson has just announced a lockdown. His dither and delay means he’s announced a lockdown longer and deeper than needed had he followed the advice of a scientists last month and introduced a short circuit break.”
The University of Leicester – which is allowed to stay open – said: “We will consider the new national lockdown measures. We will share next steps early next week. In the meantime, current teaching and working patterns continue. Stay safe.”