Paul Clancy, Chief Executive, Derry Chamber
Reacting to the Chancellor’s Summer Statement this afternoon, Londonderry Chamber Chief Executive Paul Clancy said:
“This afternoon’s Summer Statement from the Chancellor provides some clarity over the next steps in the recovery of our economy post-coronavirus. A six-month cut in VAT from 20% to 5% will be a huge boost for our badly-hit hospitality and tourism businesses and the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ voucher scheme will hopefully encourage customers back into our world-class restaurants and cafes. However, going forward, the Chancellor must consider permanently reducing the VAT rate for hospitality and tourism businesses as bars and restaurants in Northern Ireland, and particularly in the North West, are at a competitive disadvantage to their Republic of Ireland counterparts who are subject to a much lower VAT burden. The North West has a strong and growing tourism offer and these are significant and welcome support schemes which will help our bars, restaurants, hotels, and attractions get back on their feet.
“The Chancellor also provided further clarity on the future of the Job Retention Scheme. The new £1000 bonus for employers who bring back furloughed staff and retain them into 2021 is a welcome initiative which is designed to avoid large-scale redundancies, lay-offs, and unemployment. As a region which has historically had higher levels of unemployment, this new initiative will help the North West and businesses here to retain workers.
“As the furlough scheme is gradually wound down, more financial support will be needed to protect jobs and businesses and I hope any fresh funding which comes to the NI Executive as a result of today’s statement is aimed at protecting jobs, enhancing skills, and rebuilding our regional economy.”