CBI responds to Chancellor's Mais lecture 2026

John Foster, CBI Chief Policy and Campaigns Officer, said:

“Amid global uncertainty, businesses will welcome the Chancellor’s clear focus on the drivers of sustained growth by addressing the UK’s longstanding productivity problem.

“Backing the UK’s strengths in AI and quantum, accelerating the OxCam corridor, and strengthening ties with the EU together form a coherent set of next steps for advancing the UK’s growth mission – combining world-class innovation, place-based investment, and access to key markets.

“Using public procurement to create early markets for quantum, support for AI adoption, and maximising the growth potential of the OxCam corridor, will help anchor the development and deployment of cutting-edge technologies in the UK.

“The Chancellor is also right to outline her priorities for strengthening ties with the EU – our largest trading partner. Business supports closer regulatory alignment where it serves our national economic interest, enhances mutual recognition, and deepens bilaterial industrial co-operation.

“The immediate challenge for firms is the high cost of doing business, compounded by the risk of prolonged conflict in the Middle East. Businesses want to seize growth opportunities, but lack the headroom to invest in skills, trade support, and technology.

“To ease the pressure on firms and unlock elusive economic growth, the government should work with business to address the longstanding issue of high energy costs, ease regulatory burdens, deliver practical solutions on employment rights, and build a simpler, more competitive tax system. The ambition is there, now is the time for delivery.”