Labour is concerned that workers are being left behind in the Government’s current plans to tackle the Coronavirus pandemic sweeping the country.

Wyre Forest Labour’s Stephen Brown said “Whilst businesses have been told they’ll get a £330billion package, it’s left low paid workers, those in the gig economy, and the self employed out on a limb. There’s lots of uncertainty too for small business. The Government’s proposals for sweeping emergency powers is also very concerning. They want to enact measures that will give them some pretty authoritarian powers for two years. Given the shambolic way they’ve handled this crisis to date that’s way too long. It needs reining in.

In other European countries affected, Government powers have to go through Parliament much more regularly. This is another attempt by Boris Johnson to avoid the scrutiny he hates. Labour has tabled amendments to restrict this power and make the Government more accountable. We want to see guarantees for workers, help with rent, and a 6 month cap on these wide Government ranging powers. No worker should be made to feel financially vulnerable because they have to self isolate, are sick, or scared they might lose their job or home. More needs to be done. So far all we’ve had are fine words.”

Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn has called for

1. A fresh vote on the legislation every 6 months
2. Guarantees on jobs, incomes, sick pay and increased Universal Credit
3. Rent suspension for those affected