Commenting on the additional COVID-19 support measures for businesses announced today by the UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak, Dr Liz Cameron, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce said:

“The additional support measures announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak are essential if businesses are to survive and will provide immediate cashflow support to businesses that urgently require it.

“We now need the Scottish and UK Governments to provide access to these funds quickly and as easily as possible – any delays could lead to further job losses and we must avoid this at all costs.

“This is an unprecedented situation for business, communities and our society. We need to constantly review the business and economic impacts and ensure companies are supported quickly and with the relevant measures.

“We are ready to accept the UK Government’s invitation to work with them to design a system that ensures micro-businesses and the self-employed also have tailored support as these jobs are just as important to our economy and they are already experiencing major income reductions.

“We fully appreciate we are in unchartered waters, but we are already seeing great examples of individuals, communities, and businesses all doing as much as possible to help one another. Let’s ensure that businesses are fully supported to continue getting through this difficult time.”