Publishing Guernsey businesses' claims for financial support would be 'like being put in the stocks'
Some small business owners are criticising a clause in Guernsey's payroll co-funding support scheme that allows the States to publish details of how much money individual businesses' receive.
The States of Guernsey says it intends to publish the figures to show transparency in the process.
However, several small business owners have told ITV News they believe it will stop people who need the support from claiming for fear of being "shamed".
The States of Guernsey published a document of guidance for the business support scheme, which said:
"To ensure transparency of ongoing payroll funding, it remains the intention to publish information of those organisations claiming financial assistance through the Scheme. This may include details such as the name of the business or self-employed individual, number of employees claimed for and the total amount claimed. It may include aggregated information for the self-employed. This will apply to information provided on any applications for financial support, and payments made, after 4 May 2020". One local business owner and a former candidate for People's Deputy, Ross Le Brun, said the clause was unfair.
Guernsey's Chamber of Commerce says it hopes the States will reconsider the clause.
The payroll co-funding support scheme allows businesses to claim for 80% of minimum wage for each of their employees from the 23 January.
Businesses who turn a profit of more than £50,000 will be asked to pay back some or all of the money they receive.