Lanark and Hamilton East MP Angela Crawley has today asked Rishi Sunak to provide assurances over the future of the Self-Employed Income Scheme.

Yesterday, the UK Government announced that continuation of the furlough scheme until October, however there has been no assurance given to the self-employed.

Self-employed individuals or members of partnerships whose business has been adversely affected by coronavirus are able to apply for a Self-Employment Income Support Scheme grant worth 80% of their average monthly trading profits.

The payment is will be made in a single instalment covering three months and capped at £7,500 – expected to land in bank accounts within six working days of each claim.

The scheme is in place until the end of June.

Commenting, Angela said:

“The extension to the furlough scheme is welcome, however there are a number of gaps in it that must be filled.

“The Chancellor must open the scheme to new starters and ensure employees are guaranteed to receive 80% of their wage.

“The scheme must also remain in place and fully funded for as long as each of the four nations of the UK require it.

“People in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland must not be penalised if changes to the lockdown are made at a different pace.

“However, whilst most people on furlough received some reassurance yesterday, those that are self-employed have not.

“The Self-Employed Income Scheme will prove to be a lifeline to many of my constituents who simply would not have a business to return to when restrictions are lifted.

“Bu they need a guarantee that the scheme will not end abruptly and that some of the income they are losing can be recouped.

“The chancellor must now urgently announce an extension to the CEIS until it is safe for people to return to work.”