Campaign Responses

I appreciate that it has been a particularly challenging time for many sectors of our economy, including those operating in the night time industry, as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak.

I am aware of reports of several businesses and industry sectors,  such as the travel and aviation sector, the energy sector, and  the education sector, considering making large numbers of staff redundant.

I understand your concern regarding this important issue. This is a complex area and I hope I can provide some further information in this response to help explain the current situation. I know that the Government takes the welfare of people in Home Office care extremely seriously and is fulfilling statutory duties to ensure decent, safe and humane conditions. 

Pets make excellent companions and are an important part of the lives of millions of people across the country. 

I am proud that the UK has consistently led the way on animal welfare, and it is right that we cement our status as a global leader by continuing to raise the bar.

The Government maintains that the prohibition on the four types of fighting dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 should remain in place. 

As I am sure you are aware, this extra support was announced by the Chancellor as a temporary measure in March 2020 to support those likely to be facing the most financial disruption as a result of the public health emergency.

I welcome the temporary cut to VAT from 20 per cent to 5 per cent for all food and non-alcoholic drinks, which has been extended until the end of September and will be followed by a 12.5 per cent rate until 31 March 2022. This will continue to support restaurants, pubs, bars, cafés and similar premises across the UK.

I share your concern about the deeply distressing scenes witnessed at Kabul International Airport, and I commend the tremendous efforts of our Armed Forces, and all involved in such challenging circumstances.