CBI comments on step 4 of roadmap

Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:

“With the economy in England fully reopen soon, we’re now entering a brand-new phase to the pandemic: living with the virus.

“The Government has rightly set out the terms of how we do this in a way that is practical, pragmatic and easy to follow. Instilling a sense of confidence in the plan for businesses and the public will be critical to success.

“It makes sense that the order to work from home if possible is removed at this stage. “The reality is that many firms are well-advanced in their plans and are proceeding with hybrid working models, just as the Government advises. It’s up to employers to engage positively with their staff to shape the unique new way of working every business needs to consider.

“It is now mission critical that the Government, with the support of business, does all it can to build confidence in the reopening.

“Part of that is evolving the test and trace system to be fit for purpose in this new phase. That means minimising the need for self-isolation, introducing a test and release scheme swiftly and making it that bit easier for people, especially those who are double jabbed, to go about their business.

“The Government can play a pivotal role in setting new norms, starting with fresh workplace guidance, encouraging the use of public transport and continuing support for workplace testing.”