Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

UK set to ask employers to pay 20 to 30 per cent of furlough wages from August

THE UK has drawn up plans to require employers to cover 20 to 30 per cent of furloughed employees' wages from August to reduce the vast burden of the coronavirus crisis on government finances.

Rishi Sunak had extended the job retention scheme -- the centrepiece of the government's attempts to cushion the coronavirus hit to the economy -- by four months on May 12.


The chancellor, however, told companies they would have to start sharing the cost of the scheme from August, although the government would still take on "the lion's share" of the cost.

"The Treasury has drawn up plans that would require employers to cover between 20 and 30 per cent of people’s wages," The Times reported on Saturday (23). "They would also be required to cover the cost of employer’s national insurance contributions, on average 5 per cent of wages."

A Treasury source added: “We’ve got two full months of support left and afterwards the government will help to pay people’s wages, but it’s fair to everyone that businesses contribute as they get back to work.”

The chancellor is expected to announce the changes next week.

On Friday, he had warned that Britain was facing a "very serious economic crisis" and jobs would be lost in the "days, weeks and months to come".

Reports warned of the looming surge in redundancies.

"There's no two ways about this there will be fewer jobs in retail as we emerge out of this crisis," Richard Lim, chief executive of Retail Economics, told MailOnline.

"There will be administrations that are yet to happen. The government's support measures are providing a lifeline to keep businesses afloat and preserve cash and continue to operate and allow them the working capital to do that."

The Institute of Directors sought "further clarity" around employers contributions.

"Many firms that would normally be on strong footing are still in dire straits," it noted.

Edwin Morgan, Director of Policy, added: "Firms don't want to be as reliant on government support as they are at the moment, but the response to coronavirus has shut down much of the economy.

"It's important the government designs changes to support programmes with care, because winding them down will inevitably force companies to make difficult choices around whether they can keep staff on if demand hasn't returned."

The Financial Times had recently quoted a business leader stressing that if the furlough scheme was "paying for jobs that don’t really exist, it’s better to release people into the job market to start looking for other work".

Last week, Sunak had told Parliament that the government had "stretched and strained to be as generous as possible" towards employers and employees.

"This scheme is expensive," he said. "It is the right thing to do - the cost of not acting would have been far higher - but it is not something that can continue indefinitely into the future."

More For You

Into the icy depths: Exploring Iceland’s Langjökull Ice Tunnel

Langjökull is Iceland’s second-largest glacier

Into the icy depths: Exploring Iceland’s Langjökull Ice Tunnel

Vibhuti Pathak

Nestled within Iceland’s majestic Langjökull Glacier, the man-made ice tunnel offers a breathtaking journey into the heart of one of nature’s most awe-inspiring creations. Opened in 2015, this unique attraction combines adventure, education, and engineering marvels, allowing visitors to explore the glacier’s blue-hued depths and witness its ancient icy layers. Whether you’re captivated by stunning natural beauty or curious about glacial history, this experience promises an unforgettable glimpse into Iceland’s frozen wonders.

History of Langjökull and the Ice Tunnel

Keep ReadingShow less
Feel the heat: Iceland’s Lava Show brings volcanic wonders to life

Lava Show

Feel the heat: Iceland’s Lava Show brings volcanic wonders to life

Vibhuti Pathak

The Lava Show is a one-of-a-kind immersive experience that recreates the intense spectacle of a volcanic eruption, bringing guests face-to-face with flowing molten lava. Located in Iceland, this award-winning attraction combines education, entertainment, and cultural storytelling to provide an unforgettable sensory experience. Here's everything you need to know about its history, highlights, and how to plan your visit.

History and origin

Keep ReadingShow less
Blue Lagoon Iceland: A soothing oasis of wellness and sustainability

Blue Lagoon Iceland

Blue Lagoon Iceland: A soothing oasis of wellness and sustainability

Vibhuti Pathak

Founded in 1992 to harness the benefits of geothermal seawater, Blue Lagoon Iceland has become a global icon of wellness, sustainability, and innovation. Renowned for its transformative spa experiences, groundbreaking research, and eco-conscious philosophy, it seamlessly combines the wonders of nature with human ingenuity. The geothermal spa, named one of the "25 Wonders of the World" by National Geographic in 2012, offers a unique escape for rejuvenation, relaxation, and discovery.

The Blue Lagoon ecosystem extends far beyond its iconic waters. It includes a line of renowned skincare products, sustainable practices, a subterranean spa, a luxury hotel, and world-class dining at its two restaurants. In 2018, the company expanded with the launch of The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, which earned a place on Time Magazine’s list of the "World’s 100 Greatest Places." Every aspect of Blue Lagoon is powered by geothermal energy, exemplifying its commitment to societal uplift and environmental harmony.

Keep ReadingShow less
'Spiritual world is our true home'

Her Grace Visakha Dasi

'Spiritual world is our true home'

A RITUAL is an act regularly repeated in a set manner. For our work, to stay healthy, for entertainment, for good sleep, and for a myriad of other reasons, we follow many rituals. And religiously also, we may follow many customary rituals.

Where I live and serve at Bhaktivedanta Manor in Watford, UK, on a special day we happily host thousands of pilgrims of all ages and from all segments of society. So many people visit us that day that they must stand in a queue for up to an hour in order to come before our beautiful altar where Sri Sri Radha Gokukananda, Sri Sri Sita Rama Lakshman Hanuman, and Sri Sri Gaura Nitai reside.

Keep ReadingShow less
Get glowing with these trending and chic styles

Get glowing with these trending and chic styles

THE world of hair is always buzzing at the beginning of a new year, with fresh trends set to change the beauty game.

From daring cuts to sleek, simple styles, the 2025 hair trends offer something for everyone, making it the perfect time to try something new. Fashion catwalks, influencers, and top salons have shown there is plenty to get excited about.

Keep ReadingShow less