RURAL COMPANIES have raised concerns at the limitations in the Job Retention Scheme announced by the UK Government in response to the coronavirus.

The scheme is intended to pay employees who would otherwise be redundant or subject to a requirement to remain away from work without pay and are instead designated as 'furloughed.'

Scottish Land and Estates has conducted a survey of its employer members across Scotland to find out what measures they are putting in place, and what issues they are facing in the months ahead – and their chief concern was revealed to be a 'lack of flexibility' in the Job Retention Scheme. Some called for the scheme to allow partial furlough of staff, reducing staff hours but providing financial support for the months ahead.

The SLaE survey also found that rural companies would like to see a relaxation of some regulation to allow essential business activities to continue where appropriate, and urged governments to continue to remind people to avoid unnecessary travel to rural areas. The latter concern follows an increased number of people choosing to 'escape to rural Scotland' in a bid to isolate themselves from the Covid-19 outbreak.

SLaE chief executive, Sarah-Jane Laing, said: “This is an unprecedented situation for everyone, including those who live and work in rural Scotland. Both the Scottish and UK Governments have worked tirelessly to tackle the crisis and our members will help in whatever way possible – especially in following the stay at home direction to help us all keep safe.

“The nature of rural business means employees often undertake many roles, some of which are not currently required due to the measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. We would like to see greater flexibility in the job retention scheme to allow the ‘partial furlough’ of staff which would afford businesses the financial support to reduce staff hours but keep ticking along, ready for eventual reopening,” she urged.

SLE would also like to see a temporary relaxation of some regulations governing land management.

Ms Laing explained: “Whilst everyone is making a concerted effort to maintain service and systems, it is evident that some of the permissions granted by the government and agencies such as SNH and SEPA may be delayed because of the shutdown and this will prevent some essential and time sensitive work in our rural areas – which could be carried out safely in adherence to COVID-19 guidance – from taking place.

“As we have seen with MOT certificates, a pragmatic approach – including a move to retrospective permissions – could be introduced as a temporary measure. Those undertaking work would be expected to adhere to guidance as usual,” she concluded.

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