BCC Welcomes MC13 Outcomes But More To Do 

BCC Welcomes MC13 Outcomes But More To Do 

Responding to the outcomes from the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) 13th Ministerial Conference, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “These were difficult and robust discussions between the world’s trade ministers, key officials, and the WTO, but they were ultimately successful. “The main objectives…

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BCC Economic Forecast: Recession Expected To End But Growth Will Be Weak

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Forecast has slightly upgraded growth expectations for 2024 and 2025, as the recession lasts just two quarters, but strong growth will remain elusive.      UK Economic Outlook             The UK economy is expected to grow every year until the end of 2026…

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Recession Expected To End But Growth Will Be Weak

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Forecast has slightly upgraded growth expectations for 2024 and 2025, as the recession lasts just two quarters, but strong growth will remain elusive.      UK Economic Outlook             The UK economy is expected to grow every year until the end of 2026…

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Empowering Local Economies – A Key To UK Prosperity

The British Chambers of Commerce new Local Economy Of The Future report sets out 16 policies that could transform the UK’s growth potential by empowering businesses, communities and local government. Among the crucial changes it recommends are: Devolving more powers to regional and local government so decision-making is closer to…

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BCC launch industry-led skills programme to unblock Britain’s planning pressures

The British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with Aviva, is launching a new five-year industry programme to increase skills and capacity in Local Planning Authorities across the country. The programme will seek to raise £3m to pay for at least 100 people to enter the planning industry to increase planning…

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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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