The Chancellor has unveiled new support for businesses to help them get through the difficulties caused by the Omicron variant.
Local hospitality and leisure businesses across the Orpington constituency will be eligible for one-off grants of up to £6,000. The Government will also cover the cost of Statutory Sick Pay for Covid-related absences for small and medium-sized employers to help them cope with the surge in coronavirus cases.
More than £100 million will be provided to local authorities to help other businesses which need support. Bromley Council will use its share of the Additional Restrictions Grant to direct support to businesses most in need locally.
I know many local businesses, especially hospitality venues like pubs, restaurants and cafes, have been struck hard by cancellations and the precautions people are taking ahead of Christmas. That's why I am pleased this additional support has been made available.
However, we all have a part to play in supporting local businesses across Orpington this winter. I urge you to shop locally and honour your bookings if you can. And if you need to cancel a reservation, see if the restaurant has a takeaway service instead. Together, we can help get local businesses through this.