‘Two-metre rule ripe for review’, say small firms

Responding to reports that outdoor zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas will be able to re-open from Monday, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has argued that reopening safely comes at a cost to small businesses.

As such, the body has called for introduction of back to work vouchers to help businesses cover costs associated with making a place of business COVID-safe. But the FSB's demands go a step further, with the national chairman demanding a review of the two metre rule.

“As we increasingly look to recovery – and hopefully the return of outdoor restaurant, pub and café spaces as early as next month – we need to see social distancing guidelines kept under constant review," said FSB national chairman Mike Cherry. 

"Many in the hospitality and leisure sectors simply won’t be able to turn a profit if the blanket two-metre rule remains in place."

He argued that small businesses across some European countries have benefited from a shortening of this distancing benchmark as part of unlocking processes.

"If the UK experts say a similar move is possible here, then we need to see that change enacted. Time is of the essence during these critical summer months," said Mr Cherry. 

"In lieu of a shortening, policymakers need to look at wider risk-based approaches."

Speaking about the the raft of emergency government measures brought in to support small businesses, Mr Cherry said while they have protected millions of livelihoods, broad reform is now needed to spur growth. 

"Now we need to look to the longer-term, and the reduction in employment costs, investment in infrastructure and skills, and tax reform that will be needed to bring us out of this recession," said Mr Cherry.

"We look forward to engaging with government to outline the interventions that will be most impactful."