Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what plans he has to (a) fully or (b) partially extend the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme for the (i) theatre, (ii) sporting and (iii) leisure sectors in the event that those sectors are required to remain closed for a longer period than others as a result of the covid-19 outbreak.

The Chancellor has made clear that he will extend the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme if necessary. The Government will keep the length of the scheme under review, engaging with businesses and representatives. There are a variety of factors that will need to be considered, including public health guidance and the longer-term economic recovery.

The Government’s decision on when and how to close down the CJRS will be based on all available evidence. The Government will ensure the approach is coherent with any necessary non-pharmaceutical interventions, while also considering the status of the economy, the affordability of the scheme, and the need to provide certainty to employers and employees.