[UK] Chancellor reveals new JSS will pay up to half of wages

Rishi Sunak has today announced increased support for jobs and workers struggling under COVID-19 restrictions after increasing pressure from firms in tier two “high risk” areas. The chancellor revealed significant changes to the Job Support Scheme (JSS) which will replace furlough in November. Addressing the Commons, Mr Sunak said that even businesses not forced to close were facing "profound economic uncertainty". Under the revised scheme, employers will pay less and staff can work fewer hours before they qualify. In addition, the taxpayer subsidy has been doubled. 

This announcement represents a response to complaints from businesses in tier two areas - particularly in the hospitality sector - that they would be better off under tier three restrictions. Business owners argued that although they would be forced to close, they would benefit from greater government support. In the face of such arguments, the chancellor has now changed the terms of the JSS. Addressing the concerns of these businesses Mr Sunak said, "It is clear that they require further economic support." BBC News has a detailed breakdown of how the new plan will work and analysis of the story.

Rishi Sunak has today announced increased support for jobs and workers struggling under COVID-19 restrictions after increasing pressure from firms in tier two “high risk” areas. The chancellor revealed significant changes to the Job Support Scheme (JSS) which will replace furlough in November. Addressing the Commons, Mr Sunak said that even businesses not forced to close were facing "profound economic uncertainty". Under the revised scheme, employers will pay less and staff can work fewer hours before they qualify. In addition, the taxpayer subsidy has been doubled. 

This announcement represents a response to complaints from businesses in tier two areas - particularly in the hospitality sector - that they would be better off under tier three restrictions. Business owners argued that although they would be forced to close, they would benefit from greater government support. In the face of such arguments, the chancellor has now changed the terms of the JSS. Addressing the concerns of these businesses Mr Sunak said, "It is clear that they require further economic support." BBC News has a detailed breakdown of how the new plan will work and analysis of the story.