Dudley North MP. Marco Longhi has stated his firm commitment to help support local community pubs that have been heavily impacted by the lockdown measures to safeguard against the spread of the Coronavirus.
James Stevens, a local landlord has reached out to Marco Longhi as his local MP for his support. Under current legislation table service is now required in drinking establishments. This has put additional pressure on small establishments (under 40 patrons) that have seen revenues fall and costs of staff having to rise to cope with the additional burden of table service.
Marco Longhi stated “I share Mr Steven’s concerns about the future of pubs and the hardship caused by the coronavirus outbreak. This is a very difficult time and I know just how worried people are, not just about their health, but their livelihoods as well. Pubs are important to our culture and communities and it has been good to see that many have reopened.
“I know my ministerial colleagues do too. That is why I welcome the Chancellor's Winter Economy Plan which puts in place further support to help tackle the challenges businesses like pubs now face. The Job Support Scheme will help participating business ensure employees on reduced hours earn a minimum of 77 per cent of their normal wages, helping keep people across the country paid and employed.
“It is also good news for pubs that the temporary reduction of VAT to 5 per cent is being extended by a further three months to the end of March 2021. The Chancellor will also defer VAT repayments through a new scheme until March 2022. Businesses are also being given more time to access crucial loans alongside a more flexible repayment scheme for existing ones.
“As pubs play a huge role in British society, I will continue to support the measures introduced to relieve the financial burden they are facing at this time. I have been assured that the Government will continue to look at how to adjust support in a way that ensures people can get back to work, protecting both the UK economy and the livelihoods of people across the country.
“I look forward to meeting with Mr Steven’s on Friday to explore how I can further support not only his community pub but others in a similar position.
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