Lib Dems demand Government extension of support to protect local jobs

The Liberal Democrats are urging the Government to continue furlough support until it is safe to do so and extend support to those who have so far been excluded by the Government.
 
Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey MP, who is asking the public to join his campaign to protect workers, warned the “pandemic hasn’t affected everyone equally” and called for the Government to do more.
 
According to government statistics published this week, 9,900 people in Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire have benefited from the job retention scheme.
 
Government statistics also show a further 3,800 people in Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire are receiving financial support through the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme, following a successful campaign by the Liberal Democrats.
 
However, the Party has warned some of the worst hit are the country’s self-employed workers, three million of which are still not covered by government support. 

Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey MP said:
 
“The Coronavirus crisis is leaving thousands of families facing financial uncertainty. We must recognise the pandemic hasn’t affected everyone equally.
 
“Ministers must resolve the gaps in their plans by helping those who recently became self-employed by expanding the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme.”

Alistair Cameron, Welsh Liberal Democrat Senedd Candidate for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire added:
 
“We have all heard too many heart-breaking stories from those who have lost their livelihoods overnight as a result of the coronavirus crisis, including people here in West Carmarthen and South Pembrokeshire. There are lots of small businesses in this area, including those who have relied on tourism, and many have been hit hard by the pandemic.
 
“It is simply unacceptable that so many people in need are excluded from support for entirely arbitrary reasons. The Government should listen to Liberal Democrat plans to protect jobs and ensure no one is left behind.”