Sheffield City Region mayor Dan Jarvis responds to chancellor's coronavirus measures

The chancellor today (March 20) announced that the government would provide a grant that would pay 80% of the wages of workers unable to do their jobs due to the closure of businesses in the hospitality and leisure sectors.

Mr Sunak explained that the government will pay 80% of wages for employees not working, up to £2,500 a month.

He also said there would be no interest on business interruption loans, and that VAT would be suspended until June.

Responding to the Chancellor’s statement, Dan Jarvis, said: “The Chancellor has recognised the strain COVID-19 is putting on our economy and I welcome the additional measures for workers and businesses. But the government must move urgently to get cash where it is most needed.

“Every hour matters and we need this money to flow into the bank accounts of South Yorkshire’s workers and businesses. A lack of cash-flow is crippling families and firms. The closure of pubs and cafes, while sensible on public health grounds, will add to the pressure over the weekend.

“If we take bold and decisive action, we can keep our economy afloat. As Mayor I am exploring every option to make that happen and am working around the clock to protect jobs and businesses across our region.”

Today Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that pubs, bars, cafes, restaurants and leisure businesses would be forced to close to try and prevent the spread of COVID-19.