BURNLEY MP Antony Higginbotham has alerted workers and firms that the government pay scheme to help keep staff in jobs has gone live today.

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme covers 80 per cent of 'furloughed' employees’ salaries up to a maximum of £2,500 per person per month.

He said employers in Burnley are now able to claim online one month to the day since the special programme which aims to protect those workers who otherwise would have been laid off due to the virus outbreak.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: "We promised support would be available by the end of April - today, we deliver our promise."

Employers who have paid workers and now need to reclaim the money from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) can now do so.

Conservative backbencher Mr Higginbotham said: “I am delighted that the Job Retention Scheme, which is one of the many measures put in place to help struggling families throughout this difficult period, is now live.

"This will ensure people get the help and support they need to protect jobs and livelihoods.

“I know businesses throughout Burnley and Padiham who have kept staff on are struggling with cash flow, and so I would urge all those who are going to use the scheme to apply right away. Those who apply by April 22 will get the grant paid directly into their account by the end of this month.”