Ulster Unionist Economy spokesperson, John Stewart MLA, has welcomed the Chancellor`s announcements to support businesses and the self-employed.
Mr Stewart said:
“I strongly welcome the support for businesses announced by the Chancellor. Rishi Sunak is clearly a listening Chancellor and he has acted decisively. He has proved that he is not afraid to make bold, creative decisions and step in to attempt to protect as many jobs as possible in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I wish the same could be said here about the politicians who hold the reins of our local economy. What businesses in Northern Ireland want to hear from the Executive`s Finance and Economy Ministers is reassurance that they will deliver on the Chancellor`s announcements in Northern Ireland and that we won`t see any more of the vacillation that has seen a lot of businesses left high and dry. They need a level playing field with the rest of the United Kingdom.
“I have serious concerns that disputes in the Executive have resulted in Northern Ireland being left behind, with no Kickstart Scheme in place for 16-24 year olds, no hardship fund for those who have been excluded and further uncertainty for businesses at a time when they need the direct opposite. A political game of pass the parcel between Conor Murphy and Diane Dodds, with disputes over which Minister is responsible for financial and economic interventions, will undermine confidence.”