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'Help or it will get worse' chamber warns government

CoC concerned about impact of rise in cases on local businesses

Financial problems facing retail and lifestyle businesses, caused by Covid-19, will get worse if government doesn't step in to help.

That warning comes from the Chamber of Commerce - it's concerned about the dual impact of self-isolation and high pandemic debt.

The intervention comes after the treasury minister refused to commit to support in Tynwald this week but said he would monitor the situation.

In a survey, of 63 members, the chamber found customer-facing businesses with young workers are facing a 'perfect storm'.

Income has been reduced by 80 per cent, compared to this time last year, with many describing the last week as 'the worst they've experienced during the pandemic'.

Scores of businesses will also be closed this weekend as a result as they react to isolation and testing changes.

The chamber's retail lead Andy Corrie says as long as government is compelling people to isolate, financial support should be in place to support workers and businesses. 

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