News the chancellor is to extend the furlough scheme through to the end of October was today welcomed by the Law Society. 'The extension of the job retention scheme will come as a big help for firms, particularly small ones,' said Simon Davis, president.

'All the signs are that emerging from lockdown is likely to be a slow process. The furlough scheme is a necessary support for firms as they seek to retain employees in the hope work returns.

'The legal sector is no exception – solicitors’ firms are often the weather vane for economic health. It is most welcome that the scheme will evolve to help employers bring back staff part time. We will be considering other implications of the changes – such as employer contribution – as the details emerge.'

 

*The Law Society is keeping the coronavirus situation under review and monitoring the advice it receives from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and Public Health England.

Please see the Gazette’s dedicated coronavirus page here >>