Chris Starkie, chief executive of New Anglia LEP, said he welcomed measures aimed at the rebuilding of consumer and business confidence so critical to the economic recovery, and said they aligned with the restart plan being delivered by partners across Norfolk and Suffolk.
“We know that young people in our region are likely to be badly impacted by the economic crisis. So we are pleased by the announcement of support which will enable businesses to take on more trainees and apprentices, and the Kickstart Scheme to create jobs for those aged 16 to 25. Companies may well have questions around these new schemes and, if so, they can speak to the expert team of advisers at New Anglia Growth Hub.
“The visitor economy supports 11.3% of this region’s workforce and more than 7,000 businesses, so the reduction in VAT for businesses in hospitality and tourism and the ‘Eat Out To Help Out’ discount are very welcome. As part of the Norfolk and Suffolk Economic Recovery Restart Plan, we will soon be publishing a plan for our visitor economy which will set out a package of measures designed to help businesses reopen safely and take advantage of the summer season.
“Clean growth also stands to play a vitally important role in the future success of our local area, so I am also pleased at the announcement of a £3bn green investment package, including grants to help people make their homes more energy efficient.”
