Everyone in the UK will be able to get 50% off meals out in August

Rishi Sunak has announced a raft of new schemes to help boost the economy post-coronavirus.

The chancellor revealed a range of different measures, in a bid to create jobs.

Speaking to the House of Commons, Mr Sunak laid out the government’s economic plan, saying: “We will do all we can to give everyone the opportunity of good and secure work.”

Speaking about the furlough scheme, Mr Sunak said the scheme will not continue forever, and confirmed that it would wind down in October.

To get people back into their jobs, he announced a reward for employers who bring back workers from furlough, with a bonus of £1,000 for every person they bring back into the workplace.

The chancellor announced a kickstart scheme, which will pay employers to create new jobs for 18-24 year olds, with an emphasis on good quality jobs – the government will pay their wages for six months.

Mr Sunak also said there would be more funding for careers advisers, as well as more traineeships and apprenticeships – there will be a new £2,000 payment for firms who take on apprentices.

It was confirmed that £2bn would be spent on a new green homes grant, with an additional £1bn of funding to improve energy efficiency in public buildings – it’s predicted this will make 650,000 homes more energy efficient and save families £300 a year.

The chancellor slashed VAT for the tourism and hospitality sectors – on food, accommodation and attractions – from 20% to 5%, from next Wednesday up until January.

To get customers back into restaurants, cafes and pubs, Mr Sunak announced everyone in the country would be given 50% off meals and drinks for the whole of August, through a Eat Out to Help Out scheme.

Mr Sunak said: “So for the month of August we will give you a 50% reduction, up to £10 per head, on sit-down meals and non-alcoholic drinks Monday-Wednesday.”

While the full details are yet to be confirmed, it’s believed the government will cover the other half of the bill, up to £10 per head, including children, in a bid to help boost the hospitality industry.

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