Good evening, I hope you are well - it was nice to see the sun again today! Unions have called for an extension to the furlough scheme and urgent support for the hospitality and arts sectors and it sounds like a fair enough call. The delay to the easing of coronavirus restrictions may have been made for sound reasons but that does not make it any easier for those simply trying to make a living, keep businesses going, to pay staff and keep our cultural offerings alive. The TUC said the announcement of a delay to the end of lockdown was a big setback for many workers and businesses But the Government has said there will be no changes to the original timings regarding the end to current financial support measures. Insecurity is a scourge and these working people need some lines in the sand so they will not be left to flounder. Of course, it’s not just the entertainment and hospitality businesses under pressure - there are many. The travel industry is another in limbo, having to grab at what thin pickings they can, before backtracking constantly. All of this requires resilience from industry that is wearing thin despite a desire by most to be as safe as possible. Don't forget to catch up with all of the latest news online, Have a nice evening, Nicola Adam Editor Blackpool Gazette Associate Editor Lancashire Post Email: nicola.adam@jpimedia.co.uk |