Deputy Nguyen Thi Thuy from Bac Kan Province (Photo: Linh Khoa

The plan is being discussed at an ongoing extraordinary session of the 15th National Assembly.

Deputy Nguyen Thi Thuy from Bac Kan Province suggested, given the severe impacts of COVID-19 on the economy, increasing the size of the housing rent support package and expanding the eligibility to both formal and informal workers.

She also proposed spending a considerable amount on building houses for workers and supporting testing, travel and job advice costs, when employees return to work.

Earlier on January 4, Deputy Nguyen Thi Mai Thoa from Hai Duong Province said she agreed to the proposal, noting that it will provide direct support for people, to help them deal with present difficulties and help to boost demand and encourage business activities.

But she urged reconsideration on its effectiveness, as the total budget is large but the sum for each beneficiary is not very high.

Thoa suggested earmarking a significant amount towards creating jobs, which will have longer impacts and be more effective.