Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the effect of the covid-19 outbreak on regional economic inequalities.

The Government is committed to levelling up opportunity across the country, including as we respond to the economic impacts of COVID-19. For example, we have so far helped over 1.2 million employers across regions to furlough 9.6 million jobs through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme; we have supported 2.6 million self-employed individuals through the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme; and we have provided over £11billion in Small Business Grants. The Winter Economy Plan will further protect jobs and businesses, including through introducing the Job Support Scheme and extending the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme.