Question reference: S5W-30891
- Asked by: Richard Lyle, MSP for Uddingston and Bellshill, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 23 July 2020 Registered interest
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Current status: Answered by Fergus Ewing on 20 August 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, further to the advice issued on 14 July 2020 that funfair operators could re-open their funfairs on 15 July, which it rescinded shortly afterwards, when operators will be given permission to reopen, and what urgent financial support it will provide to showpeople, who are self-employed, have not earned in four months, and whose businesses are being impacted by the current pandemic.
Answer
As we continue to ease lockdown measures, it is imperative that the changes we make continue to suppress the virus. Throughout the process, we have been clear that not all changes in each phase will be implemented at once, however we will not keep anything closed for longer than is absolutely necessary. The First Minister confirmed in her update of 20 August, following guidance, that funfairs can open from 24 August. This applies to all funfairs, both travelling and static, indoor and outdoor, as per the regulations.
We do not underestimate the difficulty the virus and restrictions have caused for the sector which is why we have worked hard to provide a support package for businesses and the self-employed valued at over £2.3 billion. This has included the £30m Creative, Tourism & Hospitality Enterprises Hardship Fund. Funfair and fairground ride operators were eligible to apply for this fund which closed for new applications on 18 May.
Whilst it will not be possible to offer funding to everyone affected by the impacts of COVID-19, we will continue to consider what more support can be offered to businesses in Scotland.