This week, the British Chambers of Commerce along with other organisations attended the Prime Minister’s SME roundtable to discuss the Industrial Strategy, and the vote to leave the European Union.
BCC President Francis Martin attended on behalf of the Chamber Network, and informed the Prime Minister that many businesses remain confident in their future success, but are keen for stability for our markets and economy, clarity on the timetable and approach to our future relationship with the EU, and action on the many issues that require urgent decision to give businesses the confidence to invest and grow.
Francis also emphasised the role that the Chamber Network plays in helping businesses to export all over the world, not just in getting goods to markets overseas but also through our Global Business Network, which connects firms with Chambers and opportunities in dozens of markets around the world
Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“Our organisation covers businesses of every size, in every part of the country. We have seen first-hand that the ‘business’ view is not monolithic – Many of our members are taking stock and making the best of the decision to leave the EU, seeking the opportunities on offer as well as considering the challenges.
“At the roundtable today we urged the Prime Minister and her new government to focus on the priorities for our member businesses – clarifying the UK’s future trading relationships, the existing EU regulatory framework, and the stability of the pound.”
On Industrial Strategy, Francis Martin added:
“We are supportive of the proposed Industrial Strategy, but it needs to have a broad-based focus that encourages a partnership between business and government, focusing on areas such as the large skills gap in our workforce and infrastructure projects, that benefit every business.
“The government must in particular address the long-standing underinvestment in the UK’s infrastructure. This means action on transport, broadband, and energy generation, which is absolutely vital in driving long-term growth.”
