Responding to the publication of the Bounce Back Loan Scheme data by HM Treasury, Stephen Jones, Chief Executive of UK Finance, said:

Bounce Back Loans form a key part of support measures put in place by the government, working with the banking and finance industry to help businesses through these difficult times. This scheme gives smaller businesses including sole traders rapid access to debt finance if they need it. Bank staff have been working flat out since the scheme launched on Monday morning to process applications and get money out to eligible borrowers and these figures are testament to their hard work and the commitment of the industry to support businesses of all sizes.

?While businesses only need to fill in a simple form online to apply, it's important to remember that this type of finance is debt, not a government or bank grant, and will need to be repaid by the borrower over the six year term of the loan. All businesses should consider carefully their repayment obligations before completing a Bounce Back Loan application. Under the terms of the scheme lenders are required to seek to recover any unpaid interest and principal on Bounce Back Loans from borrowers.