Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of providing tax relief for those working in the private care sector during the covid-19 outbreak.

Key workers, including social care workers, have demonstrated remarkable commitment to keeping the public safe in the continuing fight against the virus. The Government hugely values and appreciates these vital contributions to the COVID-19 response.

The?Government is targeting support where it is most needed. A new income tax relief for care workers in the private sector would not be targeted in this way. Those paying higher rates of tax would receive the greatest benefit, while low-earning individuals?with income below the personal allowance or the higher rate threshold would benefit less or not at all.

The UK's economic response to COVID-19 is one of the most generous and comprehensive in the world. The Government is monitoring closely the impact of measures, having regard to the need to support public services, businesses, and individuals, and will keep all policies under review.