Forecasters are predicting rising temperatures and rainfall, particularly in England, in the coming few days, before the mercury heads southwards once more next week.
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said the bad weather brought the economy to a “standstill” since the start of the year and estimates the cost to businesses at £600m a day.
Yesterday the group called for more action to prepare for future bouts of freak weather.
“With staff in some areas of the country unable to make it into work, the FSB wants to see discussion between local authorities, transport and salt mining companies, schools and the business community, among others, to find solutions to deal with adverse weather,” it said.
The FSB recommends:
The government puts in place an emergency grant scheme for small firms severely affected by extreme weather Ministers produce mandatory guidance for local authorities, including salt level recommendations; and further increases its own private salt levels to supplement shortfalls where necessary The government ensures the UK energy sector is better able to store gas for longer than the current maximum The Department for Children, Schools and Families, National Association of Head Teachers and Association of the Directors of Children’s Services work together to produce better guidance
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