Support for Scottish businesses
Scotand's Economy Secretary will give a statement to MSPs today about the economic impact of the coronavirus and actions being taken by the Scottish Government to mitigate the effects.
Fiona Hyslop is welcoming measures set out by the Chancellor to aid businesses, including a £330 billion government-backed loan scheme, but is calling for clarity on the portion to be sent north of the border.
Speaking after the announcement by Rishi Sunak Ms Hyslop said there should be more done to support business - as well as individuals - to mitigate the financial effects of the outbreak.
The Economy Secretary asked that there be more "grant support and tax breaks'' for businesses struggling to cope during the outbreak.
The announcement came as the number of confirmed cases in Scotland rose to 195.
At the weekend, Finance Secretary Kate Forbes announced a £320 million package of measures aimed at supporting Scottish businesses during the pandemic.
Speaking alongside the Prime Minister, Mr Sunak vowed to do "whatever it takes'' to help the economy during the outbreak, even adding that if the £330 billion was not enough it could be increased.
The Economy Secretary also asked for clarity from Westminster on the amount which would be sent to Scotland as a result of the extra funding, echoing calls from Ms Forbes last week over the UK budget.
Ms Hyslop said: "I welcome the further support announced by the Chancellor and the Scottish Government will pass all consequentials to businesses to help them through this challenging period.
"We now need urgent clarification from the UK Government on what funding will come to Scotland so we can provide support to businesses as quickly as possible.
"While extensive loans are welcome, we need to see substantial grant support and tax breaks to keep companies in business and people in jobs where possible, and a greater emphasis on supporting individuals and households.
"We are working hard to establish the best way for people and businesses to access the #320 million of funding we have already made available to help those most affected by coronavirus and will make an announcement on this shortly.
She added: "I will continue to work closely with the UK Government and devolved administrations as this will require a coordinated UK response.''
Meanwhile, the UK Government published its plans for a new coronavirus Bill soon to be introduced at Westminster.
The legislation will focus on making it easier for retired health and social care staff to return to work, reducing the number of administrative tasks needed to be completed by frontline staff and bringing in stricter powers to limit social contacts.
The Bill will also enshrine in law the assertion by Chancellor Rishi Sunak that people will be able to claim statutory sick pay from the first day they are off work, as well as measures aimed at helping the death management system deal with a potential increase in demand.
Scottish Constitution Secretary Mike Russell welcomed the outline of the new legislation, saying it was the product of "intensive work'' between the devolved administrations and Westminster.
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