Business survival hanging by a thread in toughened tiers, warns CBI

27 Nov 2020

Many businesses will struggle to survive despite the end of lockdown, according to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed that all parts of England will see the end of the national lockdown on 2 December. Gyms and non-essential shops will be allowed to re-open while spectators will be allowed to return to some sporting events, and weddings and collective worship will resume.

However, three-tiered regional measures will return from 2 December and each tier will be toughened.

Commenting on the new restrictions, Matthew Fell, Chief UK Policy Director at the CBI, said: 'For many businesses in England, going into toughened tiers while waiting for a vaccine will feel like suspended animation.

'Some parts of the economy, such as retail, can begin to re-open and look towards a recovery. It gives our high streets a chance to rescue some of the vital festive trading period.

'But for other businesses the ongoing restrictions in tiers two and three will leave their survival hanging by a thread. Hospitality will remain frozen. And supply chains that cross regions in different tiers will be hit even if they don't face direct restrictions.'