Covid-19 Support for Job Retention 2021-03-09
2021-03-09
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of the pandemic on employment and seeks information on government measures to support job retention.
What fiscal steps his Department is taking to support job retention during the covid-19 outbreak?
In July last year, the OBR forecast unemployment to peak at around just under 12%. Now, because of policy development, it has forecast a much lower peak of 6.5%, meaning 1.8 million fewer people who are expected to lose their jobs. Whether it is through interventions such as the furlough scheme, we remain committed to protecting, supporting and creating jobs.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not provide specific details on fiscal steps but mentions commitment to job protection.
We Remain Committed
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP acknowledges the impact of the furlough scheme on job retention and seeks confirmation on its extension until September.
The furlough scheme has helped to protect 11.2 million jobs across the UK, including nearly 6,000 jobs in my Birmingham, Northfield constituency, so I take this opportunity to thank the Chancellor for the extension until September. Does he agree that this will give businesses the vital breathing space needed to be able to plan as we go along the Prime Minister's road map?
My hon. Friend is absolutely right about the importance of protecting jobs. The extension of the furlough scheme on generous terms beyond the end of the road map is designed to give his local businesses and others the reassurance that they need to reopen safely and confidently.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer avoids specifying whether it provides necessary support for business planning but reiterates commitment to job protection.
Designed To Give His Local Businesses
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP references a SAGE adviser's comment suggesting that the Chancellor was responsible for worse outcomes by not following scientific advice.
A SAGE—Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies —adviser is reported to have said: “I thought the chancellor was in charge. He was the main person who was responsible for the second wave.” Does the Chancellor accept that his refusal to follow the science by pitting public health against the economy led to worse outcomes for both?
I urge the hon. Lady to be a little bit careful about what she reads in the newspaper. At all steps in this crisis, we have indeed taken the advice of our scientific advisers. Let us go back to September, which I think is what she is referring to. At that time—as she knows from the SAGE minutes herself, rather than unsourced quotes in newspapers—the evidence was finely balanced and there were many things for Ministers to consider.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not address the specific question about negative outcomes but instead criticises the source of the statement.
I Urge The Hon. Lady To Be A Little Bit Careful
Response accuracy