New government policy now requires drivers to have a negative Covid test before travelling to ports. Costs of the tests will be met by government and businesses are encouraged to go through their local authority for the necessary equipment. BEIS Minister Scully has...
Policy News
Latest report shows difficult quarter for businesses as sales and cashflow falter
The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has released the results of the latest Quarterly Economic Indicator, outlining business performance between August and October 2020.
BCC responds to ONS GDP figures for October
Commenting on GDP figures for October 2020 published today by the ONS, BCC Head of Economics Suren Thiru said:
“The sharp slowdown in economic output in October reflected the squeeze on activity from the re-introduction of tighter coronavirus restrictions, including the tier system in England. Firms in hospitality, who are most acutely exposed to the renewed restrictions, suffering particularly badly in the month.
Aviation and tourism businesses encouraged to contribute to Covid-19 inquiry
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Future of Aviation has launched its first inquiry since being formally set up on October 6. The inquiry will investigate the impact of coronavirus on the aviation, travel and tourism sectors and what the consequential impacts...
Business groups unite for a net-zero UK
The UK’s top five business groups have joined forces as part of their goal to create a net-zero free UK by 2050. The Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), Make UK, the Institute of Directors (IoD) and the British Chambers...
Boost for restaurants, pubs and cafes as government extends takeaway services
Restaurants, pubs and cafes will get automatic freedoms to provide takeaway services for another year, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick has announced today (11 November 2020). The measures help give these businesses the confidence they need to continue to serve...
Cash flow continues to fall amid ongoing Covid-19 crisis
42% of businesses have reported a reduced cash flow as sales fail to recover to pre-Covid levels, shows the latest report by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce. The research, completed in partnership with the British Business Bank, has released the...
Bank of England boosts economy by £150bn
The Bank of England will inject an extra £150bn into the economy to support with the recovery of the coronavirus pandemic. As England begins its second national lockdown, the new restrictions are predicted to push the UK into another downturn as many businesses close...
Chamber Q4 Economic Indicator now open
How has this quarter been for your business? Let us know by taking part in the Chamber’s latest Economic Indicator for Quarter 4 2020. By taking part, your business will be entered into a prize draw to win a Christmas hamper worth £110! The indicator allows you to...
Will support measures introduced help businesses through winter months?
Last week the Chancellor set out further financial support for those businesses who are most affected by the pandemic. The support package includes 3 further steps of business support. The business grant scheme will be extended for businesses in any tier, even if not...