Responding to the Chancellor’s announcement of further support
for businesses, Jonathan Geldart, Director General of the
Institute of Directors, said:
"The new and improved Jobs Support Scheme is to be welcomed, and
should go some way to easing company directors’ fears. A
substantial reduction in the employer contribution is a crucial
step, reflecting our members’ concerns. Taking a national
approach will help to cut through the confusion of different
tiering systems and backroom political negotiations. Directors
need clarity on what support will be available so they can chart
a way forward for their organisations.
“More help for the self-employed is another positive, but there
continues to be a glaring gap. The exclusion of small company
directors, a major part of the dynamic entrepreneurial heart of
our economy, from key support schemes becomes all the more
pressing as the virus wears on. It’s deeply frustrating that this
issue still hasn’t been addressed.
“Improved support for sectors on the front line provides a
welcome boost. With the impact of restrictions reverberating
across the supply chain, increasing local funding for
discretionary grants should also help support a wider swathe of
businesses.
“The Chancellor’s willingness to fine-tune support in light of
the developing circumstances will continue to be absolutely vital
in the months ahead.”
