Business leaders call for clarity on what firms should still trade

DEBATE: Clear and consistent guidelines must be provided

Scotland’s leading business organisations have called for clarity from government on what firms are permitted to stay open during the coronavirus crisis.

A joint statement by heads of 13 business groups — including CBI Scotland, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, Institute of Directors Scotland and the Federation of Small Businesses – said the ‘stay at home’ message had been heard and followed.

The groups said key businesses which have stayed open had done “what they can” to protect workers.

The statement said: “Essential business must continue to help the country to function, avoid significant job losses or furloughing of workers, and ensure we have a strong economy to return to once the crisis is over.

“For those companies that do remain open, adaption has been swift.

“They have been active in partnering with government and other stakeholders to do what they can to protect the health and safety of workers through implementing social distancing measures.

“A significant number have also put additional measures in place, such as installing protective screens or shifting production to focus only on increased demand for vital food and medical supplies.”

The business organisations said clear guidance from government was essential to know what businesses should continue to operate.

“Recent confusion over which firms are required to close, and which are permitted to remain open, has resulted in different interpretations – with conflicting views and public debate as a consequence,” the statement added.

“Key to ensuring we strike the right balance are clear and consistent guidelines from government – without this, ambiguity is certain to emerge.

“So far, intervention from business and government has been rapid and effective. However only by extending assistance and ensuring it’s both up-todate and correctly targeted can we be sure of doing everything in our power to protect jobs, the economy and people’s livelihoods.”

CBI Scotland director Tracy Black is among the business leaders who have signed the statement.