Furlough – questions we are asking to get greater clarity right now

The STA, along with our colleagues at UK Hospitality are seeking further detail on the below.

•  Over what reference period will the 80% of earnings be calculated? This is by far and away the most asked question
• Will pay be based solely on wages or will it include supplementary income, such as tips?
• Will we continue to pay people via payroll/PAYE and then reclaim the 80% from Government separately/at a later date?
• Will the payments to employees be subject to income tax deductions, employer and employee NICs continue to be charged on ongoing employment and those in furlough?
• Can furloughed workers be activated and de-activated as needed?
• Can furloughed workers receive training during this period?
• Is the April 1 National Living Wage increase going ahead, or has it been deferred?
• Does an employee have to be formally furloughed/laid off in order to qualify for the grant?
• Will the process for furloughing be streamlined to assist with cashflow issues?
• Many of our employees will want to look for alternative hours in other sectors during our period of closure. Do we know how this will affect the 80%?
• We assume that as a Grant there is no expectation to repay this. Is this correct?
• If we furlough people who are paid more than £30,000, are we still able to claim the £2,500 maximum per month for these people?
• If staff have been laid off-can I re-employ them in furlough? What’s the position on continuity of employment under employment legislation for a worker previously laid off but rehired and paid under support measure?
• Has consideration been given to those in the middle of an apprenticeship – either with training providers or colleges – will this period be extended?