Today, on 17 December 2020, the Chancellor of the Exchequer has extended the furlough scheme until the end of April 2021, with the Government continuing to contribute 80% towards wages. The move is designed to give businesses and employees across the UK certainty into the New Year. The Government are also extending the government-guaranteed COVID-19 business loan schemes until the end of March.
The Chancellor also confirmed that the Budget will be on 3 March 2021. This will deliver the next phase of the plan to tackle the virus and protect jobs.
The press release from HM Treasury can be read in full here.