Russell George MS – the Shadow Minister for Economy, Business, and Infrastructure – has welcomed the announcement  from the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, of further support to industry sectors affected by lockdowns.

From November 1, employees who work for UK firms forced to shut by law because of Coronavirus restrictions will get two-thirds of their wages paid for by the UK Government. It will be available for six months. This is on top of the replacement to the furlough scheme where employers pay one third and UK Government pays one third.

Mr George said:

“It is deeply regrettable that we find ourselves in this position, but the Chancellor has thrown many businesses and industry sectors another lifeline, and this must be applauded.

“However, in Wales – as my Welsh Conservative fellow Members have called for – it’s time that smart and localised data are used here to, when and where necessary, introduce hyper-local lockdowns, rather than blanket lockdowns.

“Any lockdown will be felt by those it affects, but the impact on businesses and people can be mitigated in a way that protect both lives and – increasingly – livelihoods."