In an open letter, business and industry secretary Alok Sharma MP (pictured) has stressed the importance of manufacturers remaining open during the current COVID-19 pandemic (while observing safe working practices).

“Our country needs your support to keep supply chains moving and key workers mobile, as well as to protect the economy as much as possible,” he stated. “Manufacturing is a critical part of our economy and I would like to be clear that there is no restriction on manufacturing continuing under the current rules. Guidelines from Public Health England provide best practice advice on how this can be done safely.”
He added: “I, my fellow ministers and department officials, are in regular contact with industry leaders and trade associations to monitor the effect of COVID-19 on manufacturing and its workforce, and this will carry on. I’m fully committed to continue engaging through the coming days, weeks and beyond to ensure that we can support our manufacturing sector. I realise this will be challenging, but you are contributing to the resilience of our nation and I am grateful for the enormous efforts you are making in order to support the UK at this testing time.”
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