Thursday 9 December 2021

Richard Burge, Chief Executive of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), said:

“With the Prime Minister's announcement of the introduction of Plan B in England, we believe it is vital that businesses be given some latitude in the implementation of work from home policies. Businesses must take into account their and their employees needs but with the UK economy still struggling to recover, the government must understand that what suits one business may not work for another. As such, flexibility will be important if we are to avoid further damage to the British economy.

“As we stated in October, the London Chamber of Commerce welcomes measured COVID -19 restrictions such as vaccine passports in high-risk environments where there is robust technology that ensures the feasibility of the passport. We further welcome the mandatory use of face masks on public transport and other appropriate indoor public spaces as a sensible restriction that helps to avoid further lockdown without restricting economic activity.

“However, we call on the Chancellor to announce new financial support for the multitude of businesses operating in sectors that will face further hardship following this announcement, particularly retail and hospitality businesses which rely on Christmas trade.

“I urge all London businesses to observe the letter and the spirit of the law when it comes to these measures. We are a city where the rule of law applies, not rule by law.”

ENDS