Responding to the Prime Minister’s speech on regulation and civil service reform, Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

“Businesses want regulation which supports rather than hampers them – and we’re encouraged by the Prime Minister’s speech today.

“A pledge to cut red tape and unnecessary regulation is something firms of all shapes and sizes will welcome, provided it is properly targeted, and they are consulted.

“Businesses do not want deregulation for its own sake, which could have unintended consequences, especially for trade. The focus must be on removing barriers to growth, especially in evolving sectors such as tech and AI where the opportunities to achieve a competitive advantage are strong.

“Today’s speech provides a direction of travel, but firms will want to see it backed up by effective action by ministers. Government must step up to the plate and show it is committed to change that is good for business and good for the country.”