CUMBRIA Tourism is calling for more answers after todays government announcements.

Earlier today, the government announced new measures which are intended to safeguard the economy and protect jobs during the coronavirus outbreak.

It was also confirmed that cafes, pubs and restaurants will close from tonight, although they will be allowed to remain open in order to provide take-away food and drink.

Night clubs, theatres, cinemas, gyms and leisure centres have also been asked to close ‘as soon as they reasonably can’.

Managing Director of Cumbria Tourism, Gill Haigh, says, “The past few days have brought an unprecedented level of challenge and strain for Cumbria’s £3billion tourism industry and this latest announcement appears to offer some positive news.

“However, we are pushing for more information on the practicalities of how and when tourism operators can get the level of support they need at this critical time as we know this is needed urgently.

“There is also a real lack of clarity about whether accommodation providers should remain open.

"This is an issue Cumbria Tourism has immediately highlighted to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport – calling for definitive guidance.

"The definition provided by the Government is ‘areas where people are gathering for social reasons”. At this stage we do not believe this includes accommodation. We will continue to press for the answers business urgently need at the highest levels.”