The City View: Lord Barker on the 'compelling case' to extend the furlough scheme

In this episode Christian talks to former energy and climate change minister Greg (now Lord) Barker, who currently sits as executive chairman of Russian energy and metals giant EN+ Group. Lord Barker begins by assessing the current economic conditions and says there is a compelling case to extend the multi-billion-pound furlough scheme. He also calls for more targeted financial support for businesses. Turning to infrastructure, he makes the case for a greater market value for low-carbon aluminium (as opposed to heavy carbon Chinese aluminium) and talks about his work rolling out electric vehicle fast-charging points. Finally, he answers questions about the debate surrounding members of the House of Lords with links to Russian businesses and, mindful of the controversy around his own current role, says there is a case for greater transparency and reform. Also in this episode, Christian discusses the latest economic data and what can be done to aid the recovery; Natwest's job cuts; and Doc Martens' decision to return the furlough money they called upon during the lockdown. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Om Podcasten

The City View is a new podcast from City A.M. - London's daily business and finance newspaper. City A.M. was launched 15 years ago under the strapline "business with personality" - and The City View podcast follows the same philosophy. Every day, City A.M. Editor Andy Silvester will open the podcast with a quick look at the headlines from the worlds of business, finance, economics and politics, before introducing his guest of the day. Guests will be industry leaders, economists, pundits, investors, journalists, politicians and senior figures from the City of London. Expect insight and analysis mixed with good conversation, humour and expertise as Andy and his guests attempt to make sense of the world in extraordinary times.