It has been revealed that 52,500 jobs across Milton Keynes were protected by Furlough during the pandemic.
The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, announced the scheme in March last year to protect people's livelihoods as COVID-19 forced the UK into lockdown as part of his commitment to 'do whatever it takes' to support individuals, businesses and the most vulnerable throughout the crisis.
With the country now re-opening with more than 45,000,000 people across the country double vaccinated against the virus, the Furlough Scheme came to an end this month and millions of workers had already moved off the scheme.
Iain Stewart, MP for Milton Keynes South, said: “By implementing the Furlough Scheme, this Government has helped protect over 52,000 jobs across Milton Keynes. Undoubtedly, this has given individuals, families and businesses the security of a regular wage as we have battled the coronavirus pandemic.
“Now, with Milton Keynes’ economy starting to Bounce Back, I welcome the Prime Minister’s plan to build back better. This will ensure that MK’s future is prosperous and that constituents will benefit as this Government continues in its levelling up agenda.”
MP for MK North, Ben Everitt, commented: "The Furlough Scheme has been a lifeline for so many people and businesses across the country over the last year-and-a-half and it's just incredible to see it protected 52,500 jobs right here in Milton Keynes.
"As we heard in the Prime Minister's speech now we must build back better and we are determined to do that by levelling up skills, wages and opportunity. Milton Keynes can be at the heart of the UK's recovery from coronavirus with our strong business community and hard working, innovative population."
Alex Walker, Leader of MK Council’s Conservative Group, said: "The furlough scheme has been a crucial anchor for businesses and employees across the country throughout the pandemic.
“It has helped to protect jobs, boost business and keep our economy going through tough times.
“The Government said they would do whatever it takes to safeguard jobs and they have succeeded in Milton Keynes and the country."
