LONDON - Britain's Queen Elizabeth
thanked businesses across the world on Friday for their response
to the coronavirus pandemic and their work to "rebuild
communities" as they begin to reopen after lockdowns imposed to
address the coronavirus pandemic.
"As many organisations around the country are reopening, I
send my warmest best wishes and support to business communities
throughout the United Kingdom, Commonwealth and across the
world," Elizabeth said in a message to the British Chambers of
Commerce of which she is patron.
"At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming
to see the civic response and generosity of so many businesses,
small and large, to the challenges posed, whether supporting the
health sector or vulnerable communities."
Britain's economy has taken a pounding after the government
imposed a lockdown in March which shuttered all non-essential
retailers, with figures on Friday showing public borrowing had
hit a record high and debt had passed 100% of economic output.
However, there was some brighter news for the retail sector
with sales rebounding much more strongly last month than
expected.
"I wish all businesses every success in their endeavours in
the weeks and months ahead," the queen said.