The furlough job-saving scheme is to be extended to the end of April.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the Government will continue to pay 80 per cent of employee wages for those affected by coronavirus closures of their places of work.
The scheme was due to end in March.
Sunak said: “We know the premium businesses place on certainty, so it is right that we enable them to plan ahead regardless of the path the virus takes, which is why we’re providing certainty and clarity by extending this support, as well as implementing our Plan for Jobs.
“Our package of support for businesses and workers continues to be one of the most generous and effective in the world – helping our economy to recover and protecting livelihoods across the country.”
Today was the last day that Sunak could announce an extension, as companies seeking to make more than 100 staff redundant must issue notices at least 45 days in advance.
Under the scheme, the Government will pay 80 per cent of the wages of employees for hours not worked until April 30.
Employers will only have to pay wages, National Insurance Contributions and pensions for hours worked and NICS and pensions for hours not worked.
