England lockdown: Furlough scheme extended and house moves can still go ahead

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick MP has confirmed house moves can still go ahead in England when the national lockdown comes into force later this week.

At the weekend the Prime Minister announced a nationwide lockdown will be introduced across England, effective from Thursday 5th November until 2nd December. The measures will be debated and voted on in Parliament on Wednesday.

In a series of tweets posted on Sunday 1st November, the Housing Secretary said that when the lockdown is in place:

• Renters and homeowners can still move house
• Removal firms and estate agents can still operate
• Tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers and repairers of domestic appliances can still enter people’s home. They will need to follow social distancing guidance that has already been published.
• In all of these cases, Government Covid safety guidance must be followed.

Financial Support

The furlough scheme has been extended and will remain open until December, with employees receiving 80% of their current salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500. Under the extended scheme, the cost for employers of retaining workers will be reduced compared to the current scheme, which ended on 31^st October. The Job Support Scheme, which was scheduled to come in on Sunday 1st November, has been postponed until the furlough scheme ends.

This article will be updated when we know more information.

The situation in Wales

In Wales, a "cicuit break" lockdown remains in place until 9th November. House moves in the country are only allowed in they cannot be postponed until after this lockdown, and only virtual viewings can go ahead. More on this can be read here.