New inquiry launches into jobs and growth after Covid-19

A cross-party group of MPs is to examine how the government can reduce job losses after the pandemic.

The Treasury select committee’s new inquiry into jobs, growth, and productivity after coronavirus will also look at what difference the government can make to economic growth, and what has caused the UK’s productivity growth to be persistently weak.

The inquiry will also examine macroeconomic policy, looking at whether the Bank of England’s inflation target is fit for purpose, if the Monetary Policy Committee has effective tools to stimulate the economy when interest rates are low, and whether a return of inflation is a risk to the economic recovery.

The deadline for submitting written evidence is 5pm on Monday 17 May.

The first evidence sessions will take place before the summer recess, with a report expected later this year.

‘As the UK begins to emerge from the pandemic, jobs, growth and productivity will be key priorities for the Treasury committee,’ said committee chair, Mel Stride.

‘What role can the government play in raising economic growth? How can the government reduce economic scarring effects from the pandemic? Does the government have a coherent strategy to promote long-term productivity growth?

‘These are some of the questions that we’ll seek to answer throughout this inquiry, which will conclude with a series of recommendations for the government and associated public bodies.’

Responding to the inquiry announcement, UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: ‘Prior to Covid, hospitality was the third largest employer in the country, providing jobs for 3.2 million people. The sector created £130bn in economic activity and generated £39bn of tax for the Exchequer, funding vital services. It will, therefore, be key to economic recovery.

‘Having been the sector hardest hit by the pandemic, suffering months of closure and acute trading restrictions, the future of thousands of pubs, restaurants, hotels and leisure facilities is in jeopardy. So, while the sector is keen to play its part in helping to power the UK’s economic revival and job creation efforts, businesses can only do so with the right trading conditions.’

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