LONDON business chiefs today implored Boris Johnson to take any steps necessary to avoid the “disaster” of a new work-from-home order that would cripple the capital’s recovering economy in the run-up to Christmas.
The calls come amid a surge in Covid cases to levels not seen since July, which prompted demands from health chiefs and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer for the immediate introduction of “Plan B” measures that could include “asking people once again to work from home if they can”.
This has sent a shudder of fear through businesses in the West End and the City — particularly in the hospitality and retail sectors — just beginning to see levels of activity finally approach pre-pandemic normality.
Employers say they would rather see enforcement of mask-wearing on public transport, a stepping-up of the vaccination programme in schools, and a more rapid roll-out of booster jabs so that work-from-home advice can be averted.
Catherine McGuinness, policy chair of the City of London Corporation, said: “The Square Mile’s streets have been buzzing again and it’s common to see queues spilling out of cafes and restaurants as people grab their lunch or meet after work.
This story is from the October 25, 2021 edition of Evening Standard.
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This story is from the October 25, 2021 edition of Evening Standard.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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