UKH urges gov to stick to roadmap amid delay reports

UKHospitality has urged the government to stick to its 21 June 2021 date to lift all Covid-19 restrictions ahead of its decision over a possible delay that is due to take place this evening (14 June 2021).

The trade body has reiterated that failure to stick to its roadmap will further jeopardise the future of thousands of hospitality businesses and the 300,000 jobs they provide.

The news follows the government’s reported decision to delay the lifting of all restrictions by one month which the association claims would cost the sector around £3bn in sales and have a “knock-on” impact on bookings throughout the summer and into the autumn.

Kate Nicholls, chief executive, UKHospitality stated that a “full and final ending” of restrictions is the only way to ensure that businesses in this sector can trade profitably.

She said: “If the government decides it has to keep some restrictions in place after 21 June, then it must prioritise those that do the least damage to business and commit to further supporting the sector.

“Confidence has been shaken so it is imperative that the government postpones business rates payments until at least October and extend the rent and debt moratoria for hospitality businesses while a long-term solution to Covid arrears is found.”

She added: “Hospitality is desperate to get back to what it does best and can play a key role in the economic recovery of the UK – but only if it is given permission to trade and proper support.”