Chamber Reacts to Greater Manchester Being Placed in Tier 3
3 years ago
Commenting on the news that Greater Manchester will be in Tier 3 with a substantially reduced financial package, Chris Fletcher, Policy Director at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said: “This news comes as a bitter blow to the whole of Greater Manchester, its businesses and its residents. The huge difference from what has been given to what was needed seems a petty act of political sabotage on a regional economy by the government.
“There has been a concerted effort by everyone right across GM to make clear to government why extra funding was a necessary factor to support a move to Tier3. GM has been in Tier 2 type measures since July and increasing numbers of businesses are struggling with dwindling cash reserves, the imminent ending of furlough and a huge drop off in sales. The fact that we have ended up in Tier 3 with just £22m and the PM confirmed that a business support package of £55m was removed will not only create concern but genuine anger and distrust towards this government.
“It is vital that people follow the rules. The fact is that the virus must be brought under control however this will become increasingly challenging as the weeks progress if further funding isn’t brought forward and a more sensible and realistic approach taken by government .”
Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce is the largest Chamber of Commerce in the UK, providing business support to approximately 4,500 members who collectively employ 446,000 people, around one-third of Greater Manchester’s workforce.
Recognised as a leader in its field, Greater Manchester Chamber’s reputation in government circles has grown locally and nationally. At the heart of the area of greatest economic intensity outside London and the South East, the Chamber is the primary body for business support, policy, representation and networking.
The Chamber is an independent, not-for-profit private company and its aim is to support businesses and help create the best climate for the region to prosper. This is achieved by ensuring that those taking decisions on key issues such as transport, taxation and business regulation hear the voice of our members. The representation of our members’ views is central to the work of the policy team at the Chamber; these views are gathered in a range of ways including our local councils, policy committees, sector councils, the main Chamber council, focus groups, meetings with politicians and consultations.
The Chamber also offers a range of networking forums across Greater Manchester, free as part of membership, plus a variety of other events and services designed to benefit specific sectors or individuals and help businesses to grow.