Covid-19 Update Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Covid-19 Update

Christine Jardine Excerpts
Monday 12th October 2020

(3 years, 7 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Boris Johnson Portrait The Prime Minister
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Yes. I am aware of the feelings in the midlands and, indeed, around the country. I can tell the people of Meriden that we want to get them out of any kind of restrictions as fast as we possibly can.

Christine Jardine Portrait Christine Jardine (Edinburgh West) (LD) [V]
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Prime Minister, we are all disappointed and distressed that we are back where we were in March in many ways. The Prime Minister says that he wants to keep the economy going, but for many businesses and individuals, particularly the clinically vulnerable, that will be impossible. Will the Prime Minister and Chancellor end this chop and change, knee-jerk reaction approach that we have seen in recent days and extend the job retention scheme and furlough until next June so that businesses and individuals can have certainty and clarity about the support they will get, which will enable them to plan their way through this crisis?

Boris Johnson Portrait The Prime Minister
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I understand the point that the hon. Lady makes, but she will also understand that the schemes that my right hon. Friend the Chancellor has announced go on until next spring. We should not forget that the original furlough scheme has yet to elapse.