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The Creative Industries Federation has joined with UKHospitality and the Association of Leading Vistor Attractions to call for the government to extend support for businesses that will be the last to return to full operation in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.
This includes any businesses that rely on audience, participation and footfall, including literary festivals and book tours.
The statement, issued by Caroline Norbury, c.e.o. of the Creative Industries Federation, alongside the c.e.o. of UKHospitality and chairwoman of the Tourism Alliance Kate Nicholls, and director of the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions Bernard Donoghue, called for support for these businesses, facing a "financial cliff-edge".
"Our brilliant creative, hospitality and heritage sectors employ millions of workers across the UK and form a key part of the UK’s cultural identity," the statement reads. "However, many parts of these sectors will be unable to operate fully whilst maintaining social distancing. We must avoid a cliff-edge on vital measures such as the Job Retention Scheme and the Self Employed Income Support Scheme, ensuring relief continues for those businesses who will take longest to resume full levels of operation.
"We call on government to extend support measures for those who will be the last to return to work and introduce targeted support for those industries most in need, as is the case in countries such as Belgium and Germany. The inclusion of financial support should be included in the remit of the newly established ministerial taskforces.
"Our businesses will play a key role in regenerating the UK, and in driving tourism and the wider economy, as we rebuild. They must be supported through this crisis.”