Covid-19 furlough scheme wind-down ‘too soon’ for rural sector
It is clear from most data that rural economies have borne the brunt of the coronavirus. This article provides us with very interesting food for thought in that context. It tells us:
The phasing out of the Covid-19 job retention scheme could be ‘too soon’ for the rural sector as many firms in the countryside are still in ‘survival mode’, it has been warned.
Last week the Chancellor of the Exchequer unveiled details of a gradual winding down of the furlough scheme to its conclusion at the end of October.
These changes will see the introduction of a flexible furlough and employer contributions to wage costs.
Rishi Sunak also announced the second and final tranche of the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS), with a second grant in August worth 70% of average trading profits over a further 3 months and capped at £6,750.
From 1 July, a month earlier than previously announced, businesses will be able to bring back furloughed workers on a part-time basis.
Employers will be able to decide when and what hours their employees work, but they will be responsible for paying their wages for the time they are working.