Epping Forest MP Dame Eleanor Laing and other Essex MPs have written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak asking them to reconsider the need for financial support for local businesses that will be adversely affected by the move into the High risk COVID-19 Tier 2.
The MPs' letter says the financial review is "necessary to avoid permanent economic damage to the local and national economy".
The letter states: "Businesses in our constituencies are very clear about the adverse impact of tier two restrictions, particularly in the hospitality sector.
"Many fear they may have to close for good. Pubs and restaurants were thriving again, but most now find they must carry the majority of their costs to remain open, but with only 30 to 40 per cent of the customers.
"The 80 per cent Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme ends on October 31. There are no new grants. They are in a far worse situation than they faced in the Spring.
"Please can you review the level of financial support in place for businesses under these restrictions. This is necessary to avoid permanent economic damage to the local and national economy and this must also apply to other regions of England.”
