Channel 1 Los Angeles
11/10/2020 London
“Latest figures show that London has had the largest quarterly increase in the unemployment rate in at least 30 years. For those who have lost their jobs these are extremely tough times, and it shows how vital it is that we get this virus under control both to protect people’s lives, and also their livelihoods.
“The Government’s eventual extension of the furlough scheme at 80 per cent of wages was the right thing to do, but I’m angry that the repeated chopping and changing of the scheme has created huge uncertainty for businesses over recent months and undoubtedly cost many Londoners their jobs.
“Businesses in London’s retail, hospitality and cultural sectors still require more support until an operational vaccine is widely available, and we see a return to significant levels of international tourism. The Government must ensure that all of London’s venues at risk of closure get the grants they need to cover their rent and bills, and stay afloat. As I’ve been saying since the start of this crisis, with the right support in place further mass unemployment is not inevitable.”
Channel 1 Los Angeles 