4. Statement by the Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales: Response to Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 1:53 pm on 10 June 2020.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 1:53, 10 June 2020

Okay, thank you, Suzy, for your questions. First of all, yes, a business would have to be limited if they are not VAT registered in order to attract support from the second phase of the ERF. However, sole traders and partnerships are eligible and were eligible in the first round of the ERF, providing that they could meet the criteria of a drop in turnover, that they're VAT registered and that they employ via PAYE. I think there has been some confusion about some groups, particularly market traders, who have felt that they are not eligible for any support whereas, actually, market traders are eligible for support through the self-employment support scheme, unless they don't have accounts or unless they are paid above the threshold of £50,000. So, market traders generally, unless they are incredibly successful, affluent market traders, would be able to access support through the UK Government's self-employment support scheme. 

We believe that the vast majority—the vast majority—of businesses will be captured through the second phase of the economic resilience fund. But, of course, as I've said to others, we are working with local authorities on the potential development of a hardship bursary, recognising that there may be unique circumstances that have prevented businesses and individuals from seeking and attracting and securing Government support, whether it be from UK Government, or from Wales.

In terms of ERF support, we're not asking for personal guarantees; of course, we wish to assure ourselves that businesses are viable, and that's absolutely right. In terms of the support that's been offered through the Development Bank of Wales, personal guarantees have been important to make sure that there is, if you like, for want of a better phrase, skin in the game; there is a full commitment to business development and business growth. I think, given that the Development Bank of Wales's first COVID loan scheme was so, so successful, I don't think that the criteria would need to be amended if the development bank returned with proposals for a similar second round of support.