Lib Dems demand Govt extension of support to protect local jobs
The Liberal Democrats are urging the Government to continue furlough support until it is safe to do so and extend support to those who have so far been excluded by the Government. Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey MP, who is asking the public to join his campaign to protect workers, warned the "pandemic hasn't affected everyone equally" and called for the Government to do more.
According to government statistics published this week,12,600 people in Torridge and West Devon have benefited from the job retention scheme. Government statistics also show a further 5,800 people in Torridge and West Devon are receiving financial support through the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme, following a successful campaign by the Liberal Democrats.
However, the Party has warned some of the worst hit are the country's self-employed workers, three million of which are still not covered by government support. Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey MP said:
"The Coronavirus crisis is leaving thousands of families facing financial uncertainty. We must recognise the pandemic hasn't affected everyone equally.
"Ministers must resolve the gaps in their plans by helping those who recently became self-employed by expanding the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme."
Liberal Democrat spokesperson David Chalmers for Torridge and West Devon added:
"We have all heard too many heart-breaking stories from those who have lost their livelihoods overnight as a result of the coronavirus crisis, including people here in Torridge and West Devon.
"It is simply unacceptable so many people in need are excluded from support for entirely arbitrary reasons. The Government should listen to Liberal Democrat plans to protect jobs and ensure no one is left behind."
The Liberal Democrats are calling on the Chancellor to expand the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme to include:
- The more than 150,000 people who became self-employed since April 2019.
- Those who are registered as limited companies.
- Freelancers who got more than 50% of their earnings through employment.
The Liberal Democrats are urging people to support their campaign here: https://www.libdems.org.uk/protect-jobs