Response to ExcludedUK campaign

Many people have contacted me directly and through social media about the ExcludedUK campaign on gaps in support during COVID-19.

I understand the strength of feeling on this issue. The virus has affected everyone and ensuring that the right support has been put in place for people is essential.

On balance, I understand that the Chancellor had to make complicated decisions that seek to protect against fraud, as well as get support to where it is needed, and I broadly agree with the schemes as they stand.

For example, here is a rundown of other avenues for financial support which have helped people:

• Deferral of Self-Assessment Income Tax

• Grants for businesses that pay little or no business rates

• Business Interruption Loan Scheme

More information on how to claim any of the above can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support

Locally, 13,200 jobs had been furloughed through the Government's Job Retention Scheme and 3,700 claims were made to the Self Employment Income Support scheme. This means that around 35% of workers locally have been supported by the Government.

Additionally, anyone experiencing financial hardship can apply for Universal Credit and the Universal Credit standard allowance has been increased by £1,000 per year for the next 12 months.

There are also other measures that are there to support our economy at this time. You might have seen the most recent 'budget' announced in Parliament, which I believe will be of huge help in the jobs market in Norwich.

More broadly, all these measures - the furlough schemes, business loans, investment, and even the “eat out to help out” discount that will boost the economy further this summer, bringing tax revenue back in to the Treasury for our public services—are all incredibly significant interventions and all of them benefit everyone in the country.

I know that it has been incredibly difficult in recent months. We are on our way out of the worst, in health terms, and with the support in place I now sincerely hope that local firms can begin to thrive again.