Covid-19 Update Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Covid-19 Update

Richard Thomson Excerpts
Tuesday 23rd June 2020

(4 years, 4 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Boris Johnson Portrait The Prime Minister
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Yes, indeed. The guidance, as I say, will be published later today.

Richard Thomson Portrait Richard Thomson (Gordon) (SNP)
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The Prime Minister has highlighted examples around the world where restrictions have been relaxed and where there has been a subsequent resurgence of the virus, and he has said that he will not hesitate to reintroduce restrictions if required. I would just like to get an unambiguous commitment from him about not seeing anyone penalised for doing the right thing to combat this virus. If it was necessary to continue with the furlough and self-employment support schemes beyond October, would his Government do so?

Boris Johnson Portrait The Prime Minister
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We have said what we have said about the furloughing scheme. It is our intention, obviously, to make sure that we are not in a situation where we have to keep those national schemes going. That is why the furlough scheme is tapering off in October. But, clearly—and I have said what I have said—if there are localised outbreaks or, indeed, if it is nationally necessary to put the brakes back on, then nobody should be penalised for doing the right thing.