The Government has confirmed the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will be extended to October, with no changes before the end of July.
The Chancellor said the scheme would be made more flexible, apply to all regions and sectors and enable staff to return to work part-time. More details would be made available before the end of the month.
Commenting on the announcement, British Chambers of Commerce Director General Adam Marshall, said: “The extension of the Job Retention Scheme will come as a huge help and a huge relief for businesses across the UK.
“The Chancellor is once again listening to what we’ve been saying, and the changes planned will help businesses bring their people back to work through the introduction of a part-time furlough scheme. We will engage with the Treasury and HMRC on the detail to ensure that this gives companies the flexibility they need to reopen safely.
“Our research shows that the scheme has become a key part of wider government support for businesses, with more than 70 per cent of firms surveyed furloughing a portion of their staff.
“Over the coming months, the government should continue to listen to business and evolve the scheme in line with what’s happening on the ground. Further support may yet be needed for companies who are unable to operate for an extended period, or those who face reduced capacity or demand due to ongoing restrictions.”
More information about the extension is available here.
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