Business Secretary Alok Sharma has paid tribute to the work of manufacturers and industry as employees “keep the 海角视频 economy going”, highlighting how there are no restrictions to such activity continuing.
The figurehead of the Department of Business Energy and Industrial Strategy wrote to those in the sector, with confusion over ongoing operations still apparent.
With the 海角视频 thought to be close to the coronavirus pandemic peak, Mr Sharma addressed blue collar workers directly, a slab of the labour market unable to set up at home.
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He said: “At this unprecedented time for the 海角视频 I want to pay tribute to you for the work you are doing to keep the 海角视频 economy going.
“As you know, the Government’s priority is saving lives and we have advised that where possible, people should stay at home and work from home. However, our country needs your support to keep supply chains moving and key workers mobile, as well as to protect the economy as much as possible. Every business has a role to play in helping the country defeat coronavirus.
“Manufacturing is a critical part of our economy and I would like to be clear that there is no restriction on manufacturing continuing under the current rules.
"Guidelines from Public Health England provide best practice advice on how this can be done safely.”
Scores of businesses have changed production lines and collaborated in the national effort, and this was recognised too.
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Mr Sharma, appointed in the new year reshuffle after Andrea Leadsom’s brief tenure, had overseen a rescue deal for British Steel in Scunthorpe just days before lockdown began. Close by Wren Kitchens and Siemens Gamesa have found themselves criticised for keeping going, despite extensive measures brought in.
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“Many across aerospace, chemical, automotive, steel, aluminium, pharmaceutical, packaging and other sectors, including those providing essential services and materials, have answered the call to action and are playing a direct role in combatting Covid-19 by producing the material we need to fight the spread of the virus,” Mr Sharma said. “It is vital that we ensure that servicing, parts and raw materials are available to keep vehicles and services on the road and operating. I would like to give you all my personal thanks for everything you are doing.”
Reiterating the social distancing and hand-washing guidance, he also highlighted the financial lifelines available.
“As you know, the Chancellor has announced a far-reaching package to support businesses including government-backed and guaranteed loans, making available an initial £330 billion of guarantees during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as the coronavirus job retention and VAT deferral schemes.
“I have also recently announced changes to insolvency rules, to help 海角视频 businesses which need financial rescue or restructuring to keep trading, and want to reassure you that we are working round the clock to protect our people and businesses.
“I, my fellow ministers in BEIS and the department’s officials, are in regular contact with industry leaders and the trade associations representing businesses operating across the economy to monitor the effect of Covid-19 on industry and its workforce, and this close working will continue. I am fully committed to continuing to engage through the coming days, weeks and beyond to ensure that we can support our manufacturing sectors.
“I realise this will be challenging for you personally, but you are contributing to the resilience of our nation and I am grateful for the enormous efforts you are making in order to support the 海角视频 at this testing time.”