Moray MP Douglas Ross backs 'help is coming' promise to self-employed
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Moray's MP has welcomed the Chancellor's promise to do more for the self-employed while the coronavirus pandemic continues.
Rishi Sunak announced on Friday that the UK Government would meet 80% of the wages of employed workers for the next three months, if they would otherwise lose their jobs.
Pressure has been mounting since to make a similar sort of pledge to the self-employed.
Earlier today Mr Sunak stated that "help is coming" as ministers try to design a scheme that will support those who urgently need it.
However the Government also wants to avoid handing subsidies towards the wealthy.
Moray's MP, Douglas Ross, said: "I raised this issue with the Chancellor directly on Monday after a considerable number of people in Moray contacted me highlighting their very real concerns about how this virus and the measures we have to take to protect people is impacting on their business.
"It was reassuring to hear the Chancellor outline to the House of Commons today that he has listened to what self-employed people in Moray and throughout the rest of the UK are saying.
"This Government does understand that many self-employed people are extremely concerned about the future for their businesses, and has stated that although it is difficult and complex to find the right solution and a workable way forward, he is determined to do just that.
"Self-employed people and small businesses are a vital part of the UK economy and must get our support.
"A further announcement is expected within days which will give more details about how the Government will support them, which I very much welcome.
"I have been contacted by a huge range of businesses and individuals in recent days and we will do our very best to assist and support them all."
