Our response to General Election vote

Dame Carolyn Fairbairn DBE, CBI Director-General, said:

“This may be a winter election but it must bring a spring thaw to our frozen economy.

“It offers a one-off chance to break the gridlock that has blighted our country for over three years – we urge politicians on all sides to take it.

“It’s also an opportunity for all parties to present their visions for the UK’s future. By replacing ideology with evidence, the next government – working alongside business – can show the UK is a great place to invest, start and build a company.

“Passing a good deal with the EU is the first step. Then the real heavy lifting can begin, building a future relationship with our biggest trading partner based on regulatory alignment, frictionless trade and the UK’s all-important services sector.

“Ending political instability will enable a renewed focus on domestic priorities, including education and infrastructure, which will transform the jobs and livelihoods of millions of people.

“Only by working together can politicians and business seize the opportunities ahead and overcome shared challenges, from technology to climate change.

“The prize is a more prosperous, sustainable and fairer United Kingdom for generations to come.”