Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP Chancellor of the Exchequer HM Treasury 1 Horse Guards Road London SW1A 2HQ

15 October 2020

Dear Rishi,

I am writing on behalf of Harlow’s businesses and workers, in light of today’s announcement from the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, confirming that Essex County Council’s application to place Essex into Tier 2 restrictions has been approved.

I would, first, like to acknowledge the significant amount of support that the Government has given to Harlow, including a financial package worth £130+ million to support our businesses, charities, community groups, sports and cultural societies. I also strongly welcome and appreciate the Government’s Furlough Scheme and the Job Support Scheme, alongside the Kickstart Scheme, encouraging businesses to take on apprentices and trainees, all of which will make so much difference to employment in my constituency.

Given that Essex is now in Tier 2, I would like to receive reassurance that the Treasury will be monitoring the situation on the ground very closely to ensure that any businesses or other organisations are not financially impacted. It is very important that, because these decisions have been made by the Government, businesses and jobs in my constituency of Harlow are protected. I would also ask you to do everything possible, given the financial constraints you are under, to support those on low incomes, particularly on the National Minimum and Living Wages.

I understand that in the last seven days alone, positive Covid-19 tests in my own constituency of Harlow have risen by 53.1%. A financial support package for those living in Tier 2 areas would help mitigate the economic impact on businesses, their workers and the local economy, just as financial support has been made available in Tier 3 areas.

I, and Harlow residents, would be very grateful for any reassurances you can give.

Yours sincerely,

Robert Halfon MP