Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP for Lothian, Jeremy Balfour, has hailed the continued support of the UK Government’s furlough and self-employed income support schemes in protecting local jobs and livelihoods.
The latest figures from the Treasury show that the UK Government are continuing to protect 9100 jobs in West Lothian through the furlough scheme.
In addition, by the end of December, a total of 3500 claims had been made in West Lothian to the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme to a total value of £9.5 million.
Jeremy Balfour MSP says it shows the UK Government are continuing to do all they can to protect jobs and livelihoods as West Lothian continues to deal with the effects of the Covid pandemic.
They have also criticised the SNP Government for failing to get vital business support out the door quick enough throughout the pandemic to firms desperate for support.
Commenting, Scottish Conservative MSP, Jeremy Balfour, said: “Ever since the Covid pandemic began, the UK Government have stepped up to protect jobs and livelihoods right across West Lothian.
“As we continue to deal with the pandemic, the UK Government are protecting 9100 jobs and supporting thousands of self-employed livelihoods across this region.
“That shows the benefits of pulling our resources across the United Kingdom in a time of crisis.
“By extending the furlough scheme until the end of April, the UK Government are continuing to give the economic support necessary to safeguard vital livelihoods in West Lothian.
“Now the SNP Government must also step up and urgently get funding out the door to businesses far quicker than they have done over the last ten months.”
