The SNP has said only independence can protect jobs and businesses in Scotland – as the UK government prepares to end the furlough scheme.
From today (Thursday, 30 September), the UK government intends to push ahead with plans to prematurely cut Covid financial support by ending the furlough scheme – despite many businesses being pushed into hardship due to the pandemic.
The removal coincides with welfare cuts coming into force, a rise in energy prices, and an increase to National Insurance.
Commenting, the SNP’s Shadow Chancellor Alison Thewliss MP (pictured) said:
“With the threat of a jobs cliff-edge looming in just a matter of hours due to the Tory government’s reckless plans to cut Covid financial support, it’s clear that independence is the only route to protect jobs and businesses.
“Whilst the pandemic is still ongoing, the UK government should be looking to strengthen financial support – not prematurely pull it at a time when welfare cuts are coming into force, our energy prices are rising, our tourism and aviation sector is not yet back to normal, and those on the lowest incomes are being hit with a National Insurance hike.
“The SNP are now demanding that the Prime Minister and Chancellor heed the warnings and U-turn on their plans to end the furlough scheme – otherwise we risk thousands of unnecessary redundancies.
“It’s beyond any doubt that Scotland is vulnerable under Westminster control, and that the only way to keep Scotland safe from Tory cuts is to become an independent country – with the full powers needed to protect jobs and secure a strong, fair and equal recovery.”
