Hull businesses fear for second lockdown

A salon owner and a gym owner from Hull say they're worried about the four-week shut down which is expected to begin on Thursday.

There's fears among businesses in Hull about how the four week shutdown will impact on the local economy.
Author: Liam ArrowsmithPublished 2nd Nov 2020
Last updated 3rd Nov 2020

Businesses in Hull say they're worried about a second lockdown- and are calling for more financial support.

Sarah Clayton runs a salon in the city centre. She says she's being trying to get in as many appointments as possible before she has to shut up shop.

"My first thought was about my team, about paying wages" Sarah says. "I've managed to work out some hours for the first part of this week, just to help out clients.

Meanwhile Jack Burton, who runs a gym, has admitted he's not sure how his business will survive.

"Local businesses are going to be hard pushed to stay on and still be here into December" Jack says. He's worried that the lockdown could go on for more than four weeks.

Government figures- including Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove- have confirmed that that is a possibility.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has told the CBI conference that the Chancellor is to blame for any damage to the economy.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer's blamed any impact on the Chancellor, suggesting Rishi Sunak "blocked" a circuit-breaker earlier in the year.

He's told the CBI conference that he makes him angry, adding "more people will lose their jobs. And the public finances will be worse than they needed to be."

The Government says more support will be set out in the coming days, and has already extended the furlough scheme throughout November.