EVESHAM’s MP Nigel Huddleston has hailed the reopening of shops selling non-essential items as ‘another step in the right direction.
A large number of shops are now allowed to open from their doors from this morning (Monday), subject to strict social distancing measures, as part of the Government’s easing of Coronavirus lockdown restrictions which have been in place since March 24.
High street retailers, department stores, bookshops, clothes shops and indoor markets are all amongst those who can open their doors provided they follow the government guidelines to keep staff and customers as safe as possible.
The guidelines will involve limiting the amount of people inside at a time, frequent checking and cleaning of objects and surfaces and measures like putting protective coverings on items like sofas, which pose a risk to spreading infection as they may be touched by passing shoppers.
“I’m pleased we are able to open more non-essential shops. It is another step in the right direction thanks to the efforts of the British public during the lockdown that have meant the Coronavirus infections and deaths are falling,” Mr Huddleston said.
“More than 13,000 jobs in the Mid Worcestershire constituency alone have been protected due to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and nearly £12.5million has been distributed in the constituency under the Self Employed Income Support Scheme.
“The overwhelming message I am getting from local businesses and traders is they want to return to work as soon as it is safe to do so. This is a welcome move in the recovery.”
Business Secretary Alok Sharma, said: “I would like to thank workers at supermarkets, pharmacies, post offices and other essential retailers who have introduced social distancing to keep the public and their staff safe.
“Now is the time to apply these principles to even more shops to allow workers safely back into stores and welcome back shoppers, as we look to get the economy going again.”
“Customers should be able to see a notice visibly in the shop or in the window outside showing the measures businesses are taking to ensure you can shop as safely as possible.”
