Trade Associations

Scottish trade bodies offer ‘workable framework’ ahead of Gov debate

Trade associations representing Scotland’s hospitality sector have written to Nicola Sturgeon and MSPs proposing a workable ‘Strategic Framework’ for the country’s sector ahead of a  scheduled debate later today (27 October).

UKHospitality Scotland, the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, Scottish Beer and Pub Association and Scottish Hospitality Group have sought clarification on a number of issues and made proposals designed to support the sector following the pandemic.

Said proposals include support for sub-sectors, including music and entertainment venues,  that are unable to open and high levels of support for business in tighter restrictions.

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In a joint statement, they said: “Tomorrow the Scottish parliament will debate the Scottish Government’s proposed Strategic Framework for dealing with COVID. The framework, as it was announced last week, will clearly have an enormous impact on the lives of people and businesses. 

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“No other sector has been as heavily disrupted as hospitality and the planned framework looks set to provide further restrictions which may destroy businesses and wipe out jobs. Clearly the objective for everyone must be to contain the spread of the virus.” 

They added: “It must, however, be done in a way which gives the incredibly valuable businesses in our sector the best possible chance of survival and a more equal shouldering of the burden at this time. If we are not careful, businesses will be closed for good and jobs permanently lost.

“We are now calling on the Scottish Government, and all MSPs, to acknowledge that our sector stands to lose the most if the framework is not absolutely right. They must take on board our points and ensure that any legislation, that is designed to keep communities safe and businesses intact, does not have the unintended consequence of delivering the final blow.”

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