Chamber of Commerce Statement

Speculation and ‘second-guessing’ have badly eroded trust at a time when clarity and transparency are critical.

Local businesses, and indeed our communities, must be more deeply involved in decision-making, so that the real-world consequences for livelihoods are understood.

The introduction of any further restrictions must go hand-in-hand with the appropriate level of financial support, both now and into the future.

Above all, businesses need to see an exit strategy to prevent economic paralysis.

Mass testing, faster processing and proportionate financial support for those forced to self-isolate are crucial to supporting businesses and communities in the months ahead.

We must now redouble our efforts to keep fighting this virus whilst keeping our economy open and our Chamber with other business groups, will continue to work with our two local authority teams in ensuring as much support is available for our businesses.