Use the lockdown time wisely, and keep furlough in place until next June, says Liberal Democrats Leader

"The Liberal Democrats have supported the lockdown because we believe that it is the only way to get the virus back under control in time for the festive season, " the Leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey MP has said, "We have also been clear that the Government must use the time wisely. Boris Johnson must show that over the next month they have a functioning test, trace and isolate system, in which anyone who wants a test can get one - and anyone who is forced to isolate is given the support they need to keep on top of their finances.

"Boris Johnson must also come good on his promise that all four nations will come together with a proper plan for Christmas, so that families can safely be together and the festive season can be as normal as possible.

"It was clear to everyone that the furlough scheme needed to be extended to stop people falling into poverty, however until now the Chancellor stubbornly and cold-heartedly refused.

"Rather than extending the furlough scheme to June 2021 as the Liberal Democrats called for, the Chancellor has made piecemeal changes before finally making the necessary U-turn today. Although this change is welcome, the delay will have cost businesses and individuals an untold amount as they were left in uncertainty at the hands of this Government.

"The Liberal Democrats are clear the furlough scheme must remain in place until June 2021 if Ministers are to support all those in need. The Chancellor must put this in place immediately as, so far, his knee-jerk reactions have left far too many wondering how they will put food on the table, rather than ensuring no-one is left behind as he promised."