JLR: Govt must set up a furlough scheme

EMBARGO: Immediate Release

Commenting on reports that the Government is working on a scheme to protect workers at JLR, Liberal Democrat Business Spokesperson Sarah Olney MP said:

“The Government needs to act far more decisively to support this iconic industry and all the jobs and small businesses in its supply chain.

“Ministers seem to have finally woken up to the fact that they can't just stand there and watch while JLR, its suppliers and tens of thousands of people suffer - but they need to move faster.

“The Government must urgently set up a furlough scheme to give workers immediate reassurance that a safety net is in place, while any broader rescue plans are being developed. And the Government must work hand-in-glove with the sector, keeping under review any other forms of support that may be required, such deferred VAT payments to help with cashflow.

“The Government must give a cast iron guarantee that jobs and firms in the supply chain will be protected. By the time Labour Conference starts, we need to have seen real progress.”

ENDS

Notes to editors: 

Reports can be found here.