Chapman in call to reintroduce furlough scheme following omicron surge

THE UK government must urgently reintroduce the furlough scheme so that Scotland can take protective measures against the omicron variant whilst protecting jobs, a north-east MSP has demanded.

Scottish Greens MSP Maggie Chapman has stated that the funding is needed to support workers and businesses already suffering due to a significant loss in trade and closures caused by local outbreaks, as well as allowing devolved governments to take public safety measures to stop the spread of the new strain of the virus.

Without economic support, the options available to the Scottish and Welsh Governments and Northern Irish Executive are more limited.

Ms Chapman, said: “The UK government has an incoherent and shambolic approach to the pandemic, with mixed messages undermined by the Prime Minister breaking the rules his own government established.

“Omicron is spreading quickly, and the UK government must recognise the obvious risks to vulnerable people and act decisively. This festive period is already disrupted, with many people cancelling plans for parties, gatherings etc and hospitality businesses across the north-east struggling.

"It’s time for the UK government to act responsibly and reintroduce furlough where it is needed.

“Self-employed people could be particularly badly affected over this Christmas, so it is important that those who missed out last time are included in the scheme, and that sick pay is enhanced to make it easier for people to self-isolate. Statutory sick pay is already woefully inadequate but is key to our recovery and to protecting people.”

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