Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the effect on unemployment of the covid-19 outbreak in areas with a high proportion of aviation-related jobs.

The Government recognises the challenging circumstances facing the aviation industry as a result of Covid-19 and firms experiencing difficulties can draw upon the unprecedented package of measures announced by the Chancellor, including schemes to raise capital and flexibilities with tax bills. The aerospace sector and its aviation customers are being supported with over £9 billion support through the Bank of England’s Covid Corporate Financing Facility, grants for research and development, loan guarantees and support for aerospace exports.

The Chancellor also announced on 5 November that the CJRS will be extended until March, with employees receiving 80% of their usual salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500 per month. This will continue to protect jobs and businesses across the UK in light of recent developments in the path of the virus, and the new temporary restrictions announced by the Prime Minister.

The Government also recognises that every region and community will be feeling the impact of this crisis and remains committed to helping the unemployed return to work and supporting those most vulnerable to job losses. We will continue to work closely with local areas to make sure that individuals and businesses are directed to the right support during this difficult period, and will continue to consider how best to target interventions at the places where they are most needed.