THE UK Government’s furlough scheme has been extended, with workers to keep receiving 80% of their wages.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced that the programme will continue across the UK until at least the end of October, with no changes to the scheme until the end of July.
From August onwards, the Treasury says employers currently using the scheme will be able to bring furloughed employees back part-time.
A statement from the Chancellor read: “We will ask employers to start sharing, with the government, the costs of paying people's salaries.
"Further detail will follow by the end of May but I want to assure people one thing won't change: Workers will, through the combined efforts of government and employers, continue to receive the same level of support as they do now, at 80% of their salary, up to £2500."
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At least 6.3 million people are currently having up to 80% of their salaries paid by the taxpayer under the system.
Sunak has previously said he was preparing to "wean" workers and businesses off the programme.
The latest announcement was welcomed by trade union leaders.
The Trades Union Congress tweeted: "The govt has listened to unions and extended the job retention scheme till autumn.
"Govt will still cover 80% of wages and has changed the rules to support short-time working, which is key to a gradual, safe return to work.
"A big relief to millions of working families."
Scotland's Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop also welcomed the extension, but called for more clarity on several issues.
She said: "In particular, what employers will be asked to contribute to the costs of the scheme, how any changes will relate to guidance on safer workplaces in each of the four nations, how workers in isolation will be supported and what additional support might be provided to industries, such as tourism and hospitality, facing specific difficulties. I will be raising these issues with the UK Government in the coming days."
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