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<p>The Government recognises the challenging times facing the aviation sector as a
result of COVID-19 and the Chancellor wrote to the aviation sector on 24 March to
set out the Government’s position and the support measures available. The Government
has announced an unprecedented package of support for workers and businesses to protect
against the current economic emergency.</p><p> </p><p>This includes the Coronavirus
Job Retention Scheme, which has so far helped 1 million employers across the UK furlough
nearly 8.5 million jobs, protecting people’s livelihoods. This scheme was recently
extended until the end of October, meaning that it will now be in place for a full
eight months, giving businesses the vital support that they need.</p><p> </p><p>The
Government is also prepared to enter negotiations with individual companies seeking
bespoke support as a last resort, having exhausted other options. However further
taxpayer support would only be possible if all commercial avenues have been fully
explored, including raising further capital from existing investors and discussing
arrangements with financial stakeholders.</p><p> </p><p>More broadly, the government
has committed to consult on aviation tax reform. We will provide more detail on next
steps in due course.</p>
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