Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent assessment he has made of the potential merits of providing financial support to travelling fairground operators who have been unable to operate due to covid-19 restrictions.

The Government has announced unprecedented support for individuals and businesses during the pandemic. The Government has recently extended the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme until the end of March 2021, with employees receiving 80% of their current salary for hours not worked. To support the self-employed, the percentage of trading profits covered by the forthcoming Self Employment Income Support Scheme grant from November to January have been further increased to 80 per cent, up to £7,500.

The Government has extended the temporary reduced VAT rate for hospitality and tourism to 31 March 2021. This will continue to apply to admission to attractions across the UK, including fairs, circuses and amusement parks.