Leaders in and around Watford are calling for the Chancellor to provide an emergency package of financial support for businesses at risk of closure from the coronavirus pandemic.

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor has co-ordinated a joint letter to Rishi Sunak amid “uncertainty” following the spread of the new Omicron variant.

It has been signed co-signed by Daisy Cooper, MP for St Albans, Chris White, Leader of St Albans City & District Council and Sarah Nelmes, Leader of Three Rivers District Council.

The letter says that leaders “have been contacted by many local businesses in South West Hertfordshire who have seen a collapse in business in recent days”.

Watford Observer: The letter sent to Rishi Sunak The letter sent to Rishi Sunak

It added: “Whilst an official lockdown has not been imposed, the nature of the current uncertainty has meant that many businesses and individuals have chosen to cancel plans in order to protect themselves and others.

“The festive period is critical for many businesses across South West Hertfordshire and the loss of income that is being felt could result in significant job losses and business closures.

"The Government must bring in a comprehensive package of financial measures to support businesses and individuals who are suffering as a result of the current loss of custom."

Tougher pandemic measures could be brought in to stem the spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus, reports have suggested, as ministers debate how to tackle the rising number of infections.

The Financial Times reported that Boris Johnson was presented with a number of options on Friday under a so-called Plan C, ranging from “mild guidance to nudge people, right through to lockdown”.

Mr Taylor added: “The Government must support local businesses that have been hit by the increased number of Covid cases. They have worked so hard through multiple lockdowns and done everything possible just to stay afloat.

Watford Observer: Watford Mayor Peter Taylor Watford Mayor Peter Taylor

“We are doing all we can to support local small businesses, but it’s time the government put in place a comprehensive financial package that will support all sectors currently under threat of closure due to the ongoing pandemic. If they don’t, we know businesses in the town will close and local jobs will be lost.”

Mr Sunak met virtually with the Confederation of British Industry, the Federation of Small Businesses, and the British Chambers of Commerce on Friday afternoon after he returned early from a trip to California.

Watford Observer: Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak (image PA)Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak (image PA)

A Treasury spokesperson said: “The Chancellor spoke to business and industry leaders this afternoon.

“We recognise how important the festive period is for so many businesses and the Government will continue to engage constructively on how it can best provide ongoing support to the businesses and sectors affected.”