Responding to the Chancellor’s statement on new measures to support the economy during COVID-19, Mayor of the Sheffield City Region, Dan Jarvis, said:

“The Chancellor has recognised the strain COVID-19 is putting on our economy and I welcome the additional measures for workers and businesses. But the government must move urgently to get cash where it is most needed.

“Every hour matters and we need this money to flow into the bank accounts of South Yorkshire’s workers and businesses. A lack of cash-flow is crippling families and firms. The closure of pubs and cafes, while sensible on public health grounds, will add to the pressure over the weekend.

“If we take bold and decisive action, we can keep our economy afloat. As Mayor I am exploring every option to make that happen and am working around the clock to protect jobs and businesses across our region.”