Boris Johnson Faces Tory Rebellion Over Job Support Scheme as UK Tackles Resurgent COVID-19

Strategic Insights -

Conservative prime minister Boris Johnson is set to face a rebellion from within his own party as he outlines new restrictions and measures to combat the resurgence of COVID-19 in northern England. Many northern mayors and Tory MPs are critical of the government's job support scheme for workers in hospitality businesses forced to close, arguing it does not go far enough to protect the lowest-paid workers.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tory MPs and mayors are rebelling against the government's job support scheme, citing concerns that it does not adequately protect the lowest-paid workers.
  • The scheme, introduced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak, pays workers 2/3 of their wages, but some are demanding 80% to be in line with the original furlough scheme.
  • Tory MP representing a northern constituency said the government should make up workers' entire pay, as businesses are being forced to close and workers are unable to work.
  • Former Conservative minister Jake Berry said the government must "stand behind people and businesses" affected by local lockdowns.
  • Mayor Ben Houchen of Tees Valley and Tory leader David Greenhalgh of Bolton council have called for greater government support for areas where businesses are struggling.

Statistics:

  • 12,872 new coronavirus cases in the UK reported in the latest 24-hour period.
  • 65 deaths in the UK due to COVID-19 reported in the same period.
  • The UK is expected to introduce a three-tier alert system for England, with areas placed on "medium", "high" or "very high" alert levels based on COVID-19 cases.

Sources:

  • The Times
  • The BBC
  • The Guardian
  • ITV News
  • The Telegraph