Peterborough business leader urges Government not to impose stop-start restrictions

The plea comes from John Bridge, the chief executive of Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson unveiled a three tier strategy for limited local restrictions in a bid to halt the spread of Covid-19.

Mr Bridge said: “Firms have put hard work and precious cash into making their businesses Covid-secure, and must be allowed to operate unless there is overwhelming and clear evidence to the contrary.

“Businesses cannot be subjected to a roller coaster of stop-start restrictions with no end in sight.

“Above all, businesses need to see an exit strategy to prevent economic paralysis.

“Mass testing, faster processing and proportionate financial support for those forced to self-isolate are crucial to supporting businesses and communities in the months ahead.

He added: “Local business leaders must be more deeply involved in decision-making, so that the real-world consequences for livelihoods and communities are understood.

“The introduction of all new restrictions must go hand-in-hand with the appropriate level of financial support, both now and into the future.”