Business Secretary writes open letter to manufacturers
Business Secretary Alok Sharma has today written to those working in manufacturing and industry in the UK, confirming that there is no restriction on manufacturing continuing under current rules.
In an open letter published on Gov.uk, the Business Secretary said:
"Manufacturing is a critical part of our economy and I would like to be clear that there is no restriction on manufacturing continuing under the current rules. Guidelines from Public Health England provide best practice advice on how this can be done safely."
He added:
"Those who cannot work from home and have to travel to work can continue to do so, consistent with the Chief Medical Officer’s advice. I would remind both you and your employers that good practice on hand-washing and social distancing where possible remains an important part of efforts to keep COVID-19 from spreading, as explained in the latest guidance on operating safely in the workplace. Further Government guidance is available on GOV.UK."
The Secretary of State also highlighted work by aerospace and other sectors to assist the Government and the NHS by producing ventilators, PPE and other equipment needed to help combat COVID-19.
"Many across aerospace, chemical, automotive, steel, aluminium, pharmaceutical, packaging and other sectors, including those providing essential services and materials, have answered the call to action and are playing a direct role in combatting COVID-19 by producing the material we need to fight the spread of the virus."