GMB Union has responded to research suggesting the UK is set for an increase in unemployment as the furlough scheme comes to an end.
The Resolution Foundation predicted that the jobs market will have a ‘bumpy ride’ when the Government scheme winds up at the end of the month.
Gary Smith, GMB General Secretary, said:
"The covid crisis has laid bare the terrible inequalities in the UK economy after a decade of cuts.
“A furlough cliff-edge will make a bad situation worse - increasing pay inequality and unemployment and making a farce of the Government's ‘levelling-up’ agenda.
"It will suffocate any economic recovery before it even gets going. Getting the UK back on its feet is a process - not an event.
"GMB is campaigning for proper sectorial support as the furlough scheme tapers off, value for our key workers, stronger and better rights at work and a proper industrial plan for jobs and investment in our forgotten communities. "
