A CONSERVATIVE MSP from Greenock has hailed the Chancellor's decision to extend the furlough scheme until the end of September.

Jamie Greene says that by continuing to pay 80 per cent of employees' wages for the hours they cannot work during the pandemic, the UK Government will save more jobs in Inverclyde.

The scheme had been due to end in April.

Mr Greene said: “The UK Government has provided unprecedented support for Inverclyde to help us weather the pandemic and it’s great news that furlough has been extended through September.

“The Chancellor said he was going to protect Scottish jobs and he has already helped save over 8,700 in Inverclyde.

“This announcement will be well-received by businesses and their employees across the local area."