John Baron MP questions Government on business, workforce and vulnerable group cash flow

MP urges constituents to follow PM’s instructions

Today in the House of Commons, John Baron MP asked the Treasury Front Bench about Government cash flow support during this coronavirus emergency. In addition, the Prime Minister last night announced that people should stay at home in almost all circumstances.

In the Commons, John asked,

“The Chancellor and his team are to be commended for their policy response to the Coronavirus emergency, but may I urge him to continue to focus ‘laser-like’ on the importance of cash flow to businesses, the workforce including the self-employed, and vulnerable groups in our society, as this is the key determinant affecting employment at this time?”

The Minister agreed on the importance of cash flow, and highlighted the £10,000 grants for businesses in receipt of small business rate relief and the deferral of VAT payments, which amounts to £35 billion of support for these companies. There is also a Business Interruption Scheme, which provides 12-month interest-free loans.

Afterwards, John said,

“I welcome the Chancellor’s recognition that cash flow is crucial to businesses and workforce alike. These are testing times and it is good news that the Treasury is making unprecedented support available to help all get them through the current situation. This focus must be unrelenting given the challenges still ahead.”

“Meanwhile, last night the Prime Minister announced measures that no British leader would ever want to implement, but these are exceptional times. I urge everyone to heed the Prime Minister’s words and stay at home to protect our NHS and help save lives.”

Notes to Editors:

• For the Government’s full advice during the current emergency, please see www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

• For specific measures to help business, please see: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-support-for-businesses.