Covid-19 Economic Support 2020-03-25
2020-03-25
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Local businesses in the self-catered accommodation industry are ineligible for grants despite operating elsewhere in the UK where they would be supported.
Chamberlain thanks the public's efforts, highlights that local businesses have been excluded from eligibility for COVID-19 grants due to specific criteria set by the Scottish Government. She stresses the perilous situation facing the self-catering accommodation industry and urges reconsideration of exclusions to ensure consistency in support.
Jack thanks Chamberlain for her point on the self-catering industry's importance for rural Scotland. He notes that an emergency package will be announced next week, and he has raised the issue with Scottish Parliament colleagues. The Scotland Office is keen to see support packages for these businesses, including caravan parks.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The UK Government have been discussing support measures for the self-employed and freelancers in ministerial meetings.
Elmore presses Jack on support for freelancers, self-employed and sole traders. He highlights 330,000 workers in Scotland who are categorised as self-employed and need reassurance from the UK Government about their income protection. Elmore urges quick implementation of a package to ensure people do not continue working at risk.
Jack welcomes Elmore briefly and confirms ongoing ministerial meetings discussing support for the self-employed. He states that schemes are being considered across the EU and world, emphasizing the need for timing while hoping the Treasury will make an announcement soon.
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Response accuracy