North MSP says almost 18,000 jobs in Highlands protected by furlough scheme

ALMOST 18,000 jobs are being protected by the UK Government's furlough scheme, according to north Conservative MSP, Edward Mountain.

He said the latest figures show that at the end of March, the Treasury was continuing to protect 17,730 jobs in the Highland Council area through the scheme.

Mr Mountain claims the statistics show the Westminster government is supporting "vital jobs and livelihoods in the area as restrictions continue to ease."

The Highlands and Islands list MSP said the furlough scheme, along with other economic support, has shown the strength of the UK during a time in crisis.

He said: "Ever since the pandemic began, the UK Government’s furlough scheme has stepped up to protect vital jobs and livelihoods across the Highlands.

"While the extraordinary success of the UK Government’s vaccination scheme means we are looking towards the end of the health crisis, we are facing a looming economic crisis. That is why it is so important the furlough scheme was extended until the end of September by the UK Government.

"The furlough scheme, alongside support for the self-employed and billions worth of business loans has shown the strength of pooling our resources together across the United Kingdom in a time of crisis. The furlough scheme is still protecting 17,730 in the Highland Council area.

"Sadly, SNP Ministers have been too slow throughout this crisis in delivering vital funding to businesses in the Highlands."

Mr Mountain added: "All our focus must be on the recovery and rebuilding of our communities in this new session of Parliament."

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