Covid-19: High Street Retailers - Question

Part of the debate – in the House of Lords at 11:18 am on 2 July 2020.

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Photo of Lord Kilclooney Lord Kilclooney Crossbench 11:18, 2 July 2020

My Lords, I declare an interest in a retail unit in the Royal Avenue, Belfast, and in 10 other town centres in Northern Ireland. The Government are to be congratulated on their furlough scheme, which has been of great assistance to retailers and, consistent with health advice, the reopening of hospitality and shops is welcomed. But can the Minister make it clear to us whether any consideration is being given to the reduction of VAT and, secondly, the return of staff to offices in our town centres in Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom, because that would certainly increase footfall in town centres?