TUC – government must step in to help struggling retail sector

Commenting on reports yesterday (Tuesday) that Debenhams will close all its stores with the possible loss of 12,000 jobs, TUC Regional Secretary Bill Adams said: 

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

“Yorkshire has already borne the brunt of this economic crisis. 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.

“We appeal to all MPs in our region, especially Conservative MPs, to lobby to government to save jobs and the high street.”

On the need to support staff who lose their jobs, Adams added: 

“This 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.” 

ENDS