Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak said he is taking further action to support firms impacted by the coronavirus crisis by bolstering interruption loans for small businesses and announcing a new scheme for larger companies.
In a bid to maximise the support available, the Chancellor is extending the CBILS so all viable small businesses affected by Covid-19, and not just those unable to secure regular commercial financing, will now be eligible should they need finance to keep operating amid the pandemic.
Loan scheme extended
Criteria for Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan from British Business Bank:
Eligibility – the business must meet the eligibility criteria as set by the Government to be able to qualify and be able to apply.
Security – the lending is for businesses that do not have suitable security and would not be able to receive lending from their bank
Viability – the lending is for otherwise healthy businesses that are hit by short or medium-term problems caused by Covid-19 and where the lending will allow them to trade through this short or medium-term problem
Sunak said: “We are making great progress on much-needed support out to businesses to help manage their cash flows during the difficult time with millions of pounds of loans and finance being provided to hundreds of firms across the country.
“And now I am taking further action by extending our generous loan scheme so even more businesses can benefit.”
National effort
He added: “We have also listened to the concerns of some larger businesses affected by Covid-19 and are announcing new support so they can benefit too.
“This is a national effort and we will continue to work with the financial services sector to ensure the £330bn of Government support, through loans and guarantees, reaches as many businesses in need as possible.”
The Chancellor will be speaking to bank bosses next week to discuss how the schemes are working and ensure everyone is playing their part.
