Havering Council leader calls for government support for Romford Market traders

Romford Market is currently closed because of the outbreak

The leader of Havering Council has called on the chancellor to help support traders at Romford Market in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Councillor Damian White has written a letter to Rishi Sunak, asking for ‘urgent consideration’ of measures that could be put in place to provide financial aid for sole traders and small and medium-sized enterprises.

Havering Council announced yesterday that Romford Market will close for the foreseeable future following government advice.

In his letter, Cllr White wrote: “I know traders face tough times in coming weeks and months ahead if further support is not provided. Many of these traders are traditional cash businesses and some may not have access to the business banking accounts that are a prerequisite to access the Business Interruption Loan Scheme.

“I know HM Treasury is considering further measures to support self-employed people in areas like mine. Please can I ask you to ensure that market traders and cash-based microbusinesses are considered urgently as part of those developing support mechanisms.”

Meanwhile, the council has set up a hotline for people to call if they need urgent help. Read more on that here.

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