Chancellor Must Outline Sustainable Growth Plan

Chancellor Must Outline Sustainable Growth Plan

Among the recommendations in the BCC’s Budget submission are: Government to match industry-led funding of £3m for planning qualifications to help plug the lack of local resource. Ministers should commit to fund business led Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) beyond the current 2025 cut off point to at least 2028.…

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Strong Trade In Services Boosts UK Exports

Responding to the latest trade data from the ONS, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The UK had another good year for services exports in 2023, showing the strength of that side of our economy. But there will be concern about the drop…

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Economy Toils As Recession Bites

Responding to the ONS’ first GDP estimate for the fourth quarter of 2023, Alex Veitch, Director of Policy and Insight at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “A contraction in GDP for the final quarter of 2023 means the UK economy is in technical recession. Businesses were already under no…

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Inflation Remains a Real Concern for Business

Responding to the latest inflation figures from the ONS, Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Businesses need price stability, so today’s news that inflation remained unchanged in January is welcome. “However, firms consistently tell us inflation is their top concern. In our latest research 58%…

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Business Fears Over Number Not Seeking Work 

Responding to the latest labour market data from ONS, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Fewer vacancies show the labour market is softening but firms are still reporting difficulties finding skilled staff and the large number of inactive workers is concerning. “To grow…

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BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVES GATHER AT HEATHROW TO CALL ON CHANCELLOR TO DITCH THE TOURIST TAX

Representatives of British business gathered at Terminal 5, Heathrow today (Monday 5th Feb) to join forces in calling for a new internationally competitive tax-free shopping scheme.  The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Heathrow have today announced the launch of a new campaign urging…

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New Framework to Boost Access to Skills and Jobs

The British Chambers of Commerce People and Work report outlines a 10-point plan to boost workforce skills, by supporting people at every stage of their journey through education and employment.  Among the recommendations to politicians are: An industrial strategy that is fit for purpose.  Funding a business support service to…

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BCC Welcomes Labour Tax Roadmap Plans

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said:    “It is a very tough time for businesses at the moment and they urgently need stability and long-term certainty.    “We welcome today’s announcement from the Shadow Chancellor that she will publish a tax roadmap for business, if…

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Rate Hold Gives Business Some Stability

Reacting to the latest Bank of England interest rate decision, David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:     “Today’s decision to hold the interest rate at 5.25%, the same level since August last year, will give some respite for businesses. However, the current level is…

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BCC Publishes Blueprint To Drive Net-Zero Transition

Among the recommendations in the report are: A new public body to oversee delivery of core climate policies Strengthened resources for independent Climate Change Committee  A robust Green Industrial Strategy from Government A permanent cross-sector approach to green jobs from policymakers Quicker Government action on financing the transition to net-zero…

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