FOLLOWING chancellor Rishi Sunak’s statement on Tuesday about extending the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, Island MP Bob Seely has written seeking adjustments he hopes will help Island businesses.

In his letter, Mr Seely asked the chancellor to consider allowing furloughed staff to return to work part-time earlier than the planned August 1 date to align, as closely as possible, with step three of the recovery strategy

This could see openings for a number of businesses including hospitality and leisure facilities from July 4.

Mr Seely asked the chancellor to take a cautious approach when deciding how the employer contribution is calculated, where employers will be asked to pay a percentage towards the salaries of those furloughed staff who return to work part-time, due to businesses already feeling the effects of reduced footfall and revenue.

Isle of Wight County Press: MP Bob Seely (right) alongside Prime Minister Boris JohnsonMP Bob Seely (right) alongside Prime Minister Boris Johnson

Mr Seely said: “The extension to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme until the end of October is welcome and will benefit employers and staff in industries unable to revive during this period.

“I am pleased the chancellor is allowing furloughed staff to return to work part-time, with employers asked to pay a percentage towards their salaries. This will give flexibility to businesses and boost the economy.

“I do, however, have reservations about the finer details over dates furloughed employees will be allowed to return and how employer calculations will be worked out, which I hope the chancellor will take into consideration.

“These businesses have already lost a significant part of their core operating period, and therefore will be looking to use as much of what remains of the season to trade, if considered viable to do so.”