Mixed reaction to apparent assurances over furlough funding for Scotland

The Prime Minister’s suggestion furlough funding will be available in Scotland has been met with a mixed response by Shetland politicians – amid calls for clarity.

Boris Johnson told parliament yesterday furlough would be available to all the UK.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon had raised concerns the scheme would only be available during the lockdown in England, which starts this week.

She said the Scottish government was faced with a “dilemma” as to whether to enact tougher measures now, while furlough was available, or risk waiting and discover the scheme was no longer offered.

Mr Johnson said the scheme would be available “not just now, but, of course, in the future as well.”

Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston welcomed the move, which he said would support jobs and livelihoods in the region. 

Isles MP Alistair Carmichael. however, highlighted the fact the Scottish government’s requests for furlough funding over the weekend were denied by the UK government, which he said was “grossly unfair”.

Ms Sturgeon said she was still “seeking urgent confirmation” about furlough.