CBI Scotland responds to new COVID-19 restrictions

Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said:

“While business recognises that controlling the virus is key to long-term economic recovery, the latest announcement of restrictions for hospitality will come as a crushing blow for a vital part of the Scottish economy.

“Hospitality, leisure and tourism firms will rightly be frustrated at this decision, having invested heavily in making their premises as safe as possible for employees and customers and receiving little to no consultation on new restrictions. With many pubs, cafes and restaurants only just getting back on their feet, there is no doubt this latest round of measures will put more jobs and businesses at serious risk.

“While the announcement of £40 million of support is welcome, it’s deeply disappointing that firms have been instructed to close before specific detail has been provided on what funding will be made available and how it can be accessed. That will inevitably result in further concern for firms as they try to plan for the difficult days and weeks ahead.   

“Businesses would also welcome further clarity on what these additional measures are expected to achieve and how their impact will be measured. Transparency around decision-making processes is crucial and a visible strategy for living with COVID-19 through the autumn and winter will be vital to protecting lives and livelihoods across Scotland.”