CBI responds to latest tier announcements

Josh Hardie, CBI Deputy Director-General, said:

“The rapid rise in infections is alarming so it’s only right the Government is taking measures to bring the number of cases down to protect public health.

“However, with more areas moving into higher tiers even more businesses face insurmountable pressure after such a tough year.

“While some retailers and entertainment venues have already taken precautionary measures by deciding to close, many others will lose out from one of the busiest periods of the year which brings in billions of pounds.

“Tighter covid restrictions have already been a huge setback for firms and this will be felt even more by those who have now spent much of the year under them. The extension of Government-backed business loans and the furlough scheme will provide some certainty and respite for those under new tiers.

“But the Government should revisit support in January to ensure businesses across the UK make it through beyond Spring. Efforts to speed up mass rapid testing and vaccine rollout will help reopen the economy safely, but it is clear challenges will continue well into next year.”