Labour shadow chancellor John McDonnell has said that the government's financial support package to help those affected by the coronavirus outbreak "needs to go further and faster".
McDonnell added that money must be made available to those who need it immediately and not face "weeks of delays".
Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a raft of new measures including government subsidies of up to 90 per cent for the monthly salaries of employees unable to work in the wake of the pandemic, including those most at risk of redundancy.
The measures were well received by unions, while UK Hospitality said that around a million jobs could be saved under the plans.
GMB general secretary Tim Roache said: "Securing jobs through government underwriting of wages is hugely welcome, and that’s what we've been calling for action on.
“This gives businesses and workers enhanced security and will help us recover in the long term."
Prior to Sunak's announcement, the Labour party had already called for government intervention to help pay workers' wages. The unveiling of the plans was subsequently greeted with approval from party figureheads such as ex-leader Ed Miliband.
McDonnell, however, feels that the government's support will still leave workers facing "a significant wage cut" and that statutory sick pay must also be increased.
The shadow chancellor added that measures must be put in place to allow self-employed people to claim funds through universal credit more easily and efficiently.
