Inflation Remains a Real Concern for Business

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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Most SME Exporters Seeing No Improvement

BCC’s Trade Confidence Outlook for Q4 2023 sees SME exports continuing to languish  Half of all SME exporters (50%) saw no change in overseas sales, and 24% reported a decrease.   Only a quarter of exporting SME firms (26%) saw their overseas sales rise in Q4. BCC indicators show exports have consistently…

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Common Sense Approach To Product Marking Welcomed

Responding to the Government’s latest announcement on conformity assessment marking, BCC Head of Trade Policy, William Bain, said:    “Business will welcome this common-sense approach to showing that products sold in Great Britain have met safety, health and environmental rules. Crucially, it will help keep costs down for firms and…

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BCC Welcomes UK Supply Chain Strategy

BCC Welcomes UK Supply Chain Strategy Responding to the release of the Government’s Critical Imports and Supply Chain Strategy, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy, at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “This strategy provides a substantial and compelling picture of the reliance an open trading economy, like the UK’s,…

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