Chamber response to PM’s anticipated statement on national lockdown
Date published:
James Ramsbotham, chief executive, North East England Chamber of Commerce said: “Any restrictions imposed on our communities and companies must meet five business tests.
1. EVIDENCE: Are the restrictions evidence-based and targeted effectively?
2. CLARITY: Are the restrictions clear and do businesses have time to prepare?
3. SUPPORT: Is support for businesses commensurate with the impact on them?
4. TESTING: How will the time be used to fix the Test, Trace and Isolate system?
5. EXIT STRATEGY: Is there a clear process for increasing and decreasing restrictions?
“Government needs to speak honestly with the nation, setting out a clear plan, the evidence for its actions, and significant increases in the support available for businesses and employees facing the hardship of no demand or the crushing blow of closure.”