TUC – government must step in to help struggling retail sector

Commenting on reports today (Tuesday) that Debenhams will close all its stores with the possible loss of 12,000 jobs, TUC General Secretary Frances O'Grady said: 

“The government cannot watch from the side lines as thousands of high street jobs are lost. 

“We need urgent and targeted action to save livelihoods in badly-hit industries - like retail- before it's too late. 

“Unions stand ready to work with ministers and employers on sector-by-sector recovery plans.” 

On the need to support staff who lose their jobs, O'Grady added: 

“There is a very stressful time for retail workers. 

“The government must do all it can to help those who lose their jobs get back on their feet.  

“That means investing in creating decent jobs across the country and boosting universal credit.”