Government launches dedicated business support website

Today, the Government has launched a dedicated Coronavirus Business Support website to help businesses during this Covid-19 national emergency.

A government information campaign has also launched today to ensure businesses are aware of the support available to them and how to access it. In addition to a new central website, the campaign will use media channels including radio, social media and television to reach businesses eligible for help.

Government initiates business shutdown

This weekend the Government published a list of business and venue types that must remain closed from Saturday 21 March, in a move to help combat the spread of the Covid-19 virus. A full list can be found on the Gov.UK website.

The Government has also published plans on enforcing the closure requirements that will see fines issued to those flouting the rules.

Although vehicle rental operators are not currently being asked to close, everybody is being asked to adhere to strict social distancing measures, maintaining a minimum of 2m distance from others.

Updated guidance for UK businesses trading internationally

On Saturday 21 March, the Government updated its Covid-19 guidance for UK businesses trading internationally and members are advised to check the latest update on the Gov.UK website.

DVSA: Lorry, Bus and trailer MOT exemption

The DVSA has confirmed that lorries, buses and trailers will be exempt from needing an MOT for three months from 21 March 2020.

You may need to apply for this exemption, depending on your vehicle and should check the full guidance on the GOV.uk website.

TfL: Suspension of all road user charging schemes

Transport for London has announced that all road user charging schemes in the capital will be temporarily suspended from today (23 March) until further notice.

The London Mayor hopes that this will help critical workers, particularly those in the NHS, to travel round London as easily as possible during this national emergency. It also supports the supply chain, the effort to keep supermarkets fully stocked and the city's continued operation.