17th Mar 2020 11:27
(Alliance News) - JD Wetherspoon PLC on Tuesday said the UK government should follow the lead of its Dutch counterpart and rule out a complete lockdown in a bid to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
The pub operator's shares were 16% lower at 596.50 pence each in London on Tuesday morning.
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte in a televised address warned that most would catch the virus, but opted not to go as far as other European countries, such as France and Italy, which have enforced a complete lockdown of non-essential travel.
"I believe the government will make a tactical error in resorting to de facto 'lockdown'," Wetherspoon Chair Tim Martin said, referring to the UK.
He continued: "The Dutch position of frankly admitting that most people will get the virus, while protecting the elderly and sick, thereby building up group immunity, is the best path for the UK. As scientists have said, lockdown for twelve weeks results in a further breakout of infections in July.
"The difference in keeping the hospitality industry open, even with reduced sales, is colossal. The industry contributes GBP120 billion a year of tax and six million jobs. Wetherspoon alone contributes GBP2 million a day of tax. Lockdown delays the inevitable and destroys the tax base at the same time, which will cripple the NHS and the economy. The prime minister should show Dutch courage and follow the example of their PM Mark Rutte."
In a televised statement on Monday, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson advised the nation to avoid places like pubs, though he did not go as far as calling for them to be closed.
By Eric Cunha; [email protected]
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