County boss calls on banks to support businesses during coronavirus

The leader of Denbighshire County Council has asked banks to be sympathetic to businesses struggling to get through the coronovirus crisis. 

Cllr Hugh Evans, who is also the council's lead member for the economy, said: “I welcome the support that has been provided to businesses by the public sector during this time. 

"The UK Government, Welsh Government and local authorities are helping businesses during the coronavirus outbreak.

“This action is protecting livelihoods and saving jobs in our communities.

“As leader of the council, I appreciate some businesses have fallen through the gap and are not eligible for support based on national criteria, these include the self-employed, microbusinesses, those not VAT registered and those who pay business rates through rent.

“I would like to reassure these businesses that we are working hard and lobbying ministers to ensure they are catered for as well.

“In light of the recent reduction in interest rates to an historic low, I would request banks be sympathetic and to work constructively with these businesses to provide reassurance and sustainability at this desperate time.

“I would call on them to do all they can to accommodate businesses and pass on the reduction in interest rates.

“By supporting our businesses now we can help reduce the impact of coronavirus on our economy and ensure we are protecting jobs in our community.”