Downing Street said the 'affordability' of the scheme had to be reviewed and argued that the process of supporting businesses with soaring energy bills was 'complex'
No 10 said the delay was because “it is a complex area to provide support” and “not quite as straightforward as providing a one-to-one level to the public”.
Pressed on what reassurance the Government would give to businesses who need clarity, the Prime Minister’s spokesman said: “We recognise this is a slightly longer than expected but it is very complex, providing the support to businesses and we want to look at longer term affordability and make sure we get the offer right to businesses for coming forward with detail. They can be reassured that the £18.1bn current scheme will continue to provide support up until the end of March.
Martin McTague, chair of the FSB, said: “Small firms have been asking for certainty on support before Christmas to deal with continued energy hikes, but they are now left in limbo until the new year. “What’s supposed to be a festive period bringing back the small business spirit has now sadly been stolen by a Grinch government, who’s under the illusion that small firms can plan on a less than three-month horizon and survive this bleak winter without any indication whatsoever whether their energy relief will continue or not.”
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