Coronavirus: Government can provide 300 billion in aid to businesses
– It’s a completely unique situation for the Swedish economy. Sweden has the capability with strong finances and past experience. We have to evaluate every measure and question how it tackles the virus crisis. With determination we will succeed, says Minister of Finance Magdalena Andersson (S).
The goal is for as many businesses as possible to weather the crisis.
– We will face this together, as a society, she says.
Businesses can postpone paying taxes and get tax back; they’ll have money to temporarily lay-off staff for a shorter period. That is, if staff are forced to reduce hours, businesses can get financial help. The employee’s salary will only be slightly lower.
The measures will be implemented at once, as of Monday.
Sweden is not closing its borders. According to disease control experts, it would have little benefit; the infection is already in the country. Those who are travelling to Sweden are mainly Swedes who have been abroad and are returning to Sweden.
SAS is temporarily laying-off 10,000 people.
– Almost nobody is buying airline tickets anymore, says Rickard Gustafson, CEO of SAS.
SAS is one of the companies that can get help from the government's new aid package.
It’s already been decided that the qualifying day of sickness will be scrapped if you get sick. You can be on sick-leave for two weeks without a medical certificate.
Here's how to avoid getting sick
Wash your hands with soap and water.
Wash them thoroughly and often.
Do not touch the face with your hands.
Sneeze and cough into your elbows.
Not in your hands!
Don't hug anyone.
Don't shake hands with people.
Avoid places where there are many people.
Don’t travel to countries or places where many people have become sick from the virus.
If you feel sick you can call 1177.
If you have any questions about the virus, call 113 13.
