Aimee Walker
JD Wetherspoons’ chairman has urged pubs to reopen so that jobs can be saved.
Tim Martin says the industry is ‘on its knees’ and that it should open back up at the same time as non-essential shops. Otherwise, thousands of jobs could be lost.
He argues that pubs and restaurants can be made ‘COVID-secure environments’ with the likes of plastic screens and floor markings to symbol a one-way system.
Woman Shares How To Make Wetherspoons Cocktails At Home
He said: “Surely it is possible for the hospitality industry to reopen at the same time as non-essential shops, now that a vaccine exists, on the basis of the social distancing and hygiene regulations.”
The industry has faced various lockdown measures since March last year. Consequently making for a financial ‘disaster’.
Wetherspoons, through its staff and customers, generated £764m of taxes in its financial year up to July 2019.
The prime minister has been accused of showing a ‘lack of respect’ by the chief executive of Young’s pub chain, Patrick Dardis.
He argued decisions for the hospitality sector have been made based on ‘unproven’ science, to the disapproval of experts.
In order to enforce social-distancing and keep the sector open, he says a ‘road map’ needs to be created.
Due to the rollout of the vaccine, ministers say they’re hoping schools can be opened from March 8.
Next, non-essential shops and the hospitality sector would open.
Across the UK, pubs, bars, and restaurants are closed. However, takeaway food and drink are available under certain restrictions.
Featured Image Credit: Pexel
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