CBI responds to UK-US agreement on the suspension of tariffs
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said news of a short-term agreement to suspend US retaliatory tariffs on UK exports, from scotch whisky to textiles, is extremely welcome.
“This positive step must now lay the foundations for talks at pace to resolve the dispute once and for all. This dispute is lose-lose for all involved at a time when business is suffering from the pandemic, global trade and investment is crucial for economic recovery.”
04 Mar 2021
CBI Northern Ireland responds to the Budget
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said the Budget succeeds strongly in protecting the economy now and kickstarting recovery - but leaves open the question of Northern Ireland's competitiveness with the Republic’s Corporation Tax rate of 12.5%.
“The Government and the Executive must now have a laser-like focus on Northern Ireland’s competitive position in the round, including fundamental reform of Business Rates, investment in skills and a relook at how Northern Ireland competes with the Republic’s Corporation Tax rate of 12.5%. Northern Ireland must remain attractive for every type of business, from the innovation, high-growth homegrown firm to the global firms investing locally.”
03 Mar 2021
CBI response to Budget
Tony Danker, CBI Director General, said the Budget succeeds strongly in protecting the economy now and kickstarting recovery - but leaves the open the question of UK competitiveness long term.
“The Chancellor has taken a welcome, broad view on how to stimulate growth from the new Infrastructure Bank, to Help to Grow and incentives to take on apprentices. The super deduction should be a real catalyst for firms to greenlight investment decisions. But moving Corporation Tax to 25% in one leap will cause a sharp intake of breath for many businesses.”
03 Mar 2021
CBI responds to extension of Job Retention Scheme
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said extending the scheme will keep millions more in work and give businesses the chance to catch their breath as we carefully exit lockdown.
“As we make progress into the summer, it’s right that businesses start contributing to be part of the scheme. Meanwhile it’s great to see more support for the newly self-employed, who have missed out over the last year.”
02 Mar 2021
CBI Wales responds to Welsh Budget announcements
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said the Welsh Government is doing the right thing by putting Covid support and economic recovery at the centre of the Budget.
“While investment in long term priorities like infrastructure will help to put the local economy on the path to growth, consumption and government spending alone can’t deliver the sustainable recovery we need. All eyes will be on the UK Budget for measures cementing short-term support, incentivising investment and setting out a path to sustainable growth over the longer term.”
02 Mar 2021
CBI NI responds to the Executive's Pathway to Recovery
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said caution must remain the watchword but companies need more clarity on the likely sequencing of lifting restrictions.
“While the Executive’s Pathway to Recovery represents a good starting point, many NI businesses will still be left feeling disappointed. Considerable uncertainty remains over when they can reopen their doors and goes to show the complexity of reopening the economy."
02 Mar 2021
CBI responds to extra £93m investment in Wales at Budget
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said the Chancellor is committing to an investment in Wales’ green future with hydrogen and rail to the fore.
“Meanwhile, extra monies for the city deals will enable all parts of Wales to bring forward projects that will make a real difference to communities. If the economy is to snap back into shape, then Wednesday’s Budget will also need to incentivise businesses to get spending on jobs, skills and innovation.”
01 Mar 2021
CBI comments on launch of 'Help to Grow' scheme
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said Help to Grow would make a real difference on the ground.
“The UK has some of the most productive companies in the world, but also a long tail who are not yet firing on all cylinders. Management training, access to digital advice and making productivity-enhancing software more affordable will all help smaller businesses become more effective and play their full part in driving the economic recovery.”
01 Mar 2021
Action now will protect economy and give lasting Budget boost to jobs, confidence and investment
Rain Newton Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said:
“The Prime Minister’s roadmap for easing restrictions and the Chancellor’s forthcoming Budget represents two parts of the same story – bookending the immediate Covid-19 crisis by relieving firms under pressure and setting the economy on a path to recovery."
28 Feb 2021
New mayors must champion sustainable and inclusive recovery, says CBI
Addressing the launch of the Greater Manchester Revival plan, CBI North West Director Damian Waters said:
To address the short-term challenges of Covid-19, and turn Greater Manchester into a healthier, more productive, and thriving place, the newly-elected metro mayor must champion a strong economic vision. This vision must enable businesses to succeed, and recognise that a strong economy which delivers shared growth and good jobs can raise living standards and wages for all."
25 Feb 2021
CBI President responds to NI Economic Recovery Action Plan
Lord Karan Bilimoria, CBI President, welcomed the plan, saying firms would have their sights firmly fixed on next week’s Executive roadmap and the Chancellor’s UK-wide Budget.
“Northern Irish businesses are full square behind this recovery plan. Investing in skills, creating employment opportunities, as well as stimulating investment and demand are strongly aligned with the CBI’s vision for an inclusive, jobs-rich and green economic recovery."
25 Feb 2021
Our response to the latest Hampton-Alexander Review data
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, welcomed the progress made in hitting such an historic milestone ahead of the Hampton-Alexander target.
"Firms must continue to dismantle barriers that prevent women rising to the top – by building fair and inclusive workplaces which bring about lasting change. Now this target has been reached, it’s time to go further on female representation and accelerate progress on racial and ethnic diversity in Britain’s boardrooms.”
23 Feb 2021
CBI Scotland responds to COVID-19 strategic framework update
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said for sectors like hospitality, retail and tourism, the road back to a tier system at the end of April will feel like a long and uncertain one. Others, like tourism and aviation, face another prolonged period of hibernation.
“With jobs and livelihoods still in the balance, continued business support from both the UK and Scottish governments remains essential. All eyes will be on the forthcoming Budget for an update on the furlough and business loan schemes.”
23 Feb 2021
Our response to ONS Labour Market statistics
Matthew Percival, CBI Director of People and Skills, said employers need the Budget to provide further business support - including extending furlough - until the economy is fully reopen. He added:
“VAT deferrals and a business rates holiday to June would also provide immediate relief to those sectors who are struggling and preparing for restrictions to ease over time.”
23 Feb 2021
CBI responds to Government roadmap out of lockdown in England
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said business backs the step-by-step approach to re-opening and putting an end to damaging stop-start restrictions. He added:
"The Budget is the second half of this announcement - extending business support in parallel to restrictions will give firms a bridge to the other side. This is particularly needed for sectors who will have to wait for up to three months to re-open and have an anxious 10 days ahead before the Budget."
22 Feb 2021
CBI Wales responds to latest lockdown review
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said firms will be looking to see a plan for how to swiftly and effectively reopen the economy once it’s safe to do so.
"Getting on the front-foot as quickly as possible will hopefully help lessen lasting economic damage from the pandemic in terms of jobs and firms protected.”
19 Feb 2021
CBI NI responds to latest extension of lockdown restrictions
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said while the Executive’s moves on click and collect for some retailers are helpful, businesses will require more clarity and transparency on likely sequencing for lifting restrictions so they can prepare for the weeks and months ahead.
“Decisions should be driven by the data, plans developed in dialogue with business and the Executive should prioritise allocating unspent Covid support to the hardest hit companies urgently."
18 Feb 2021
CBI Scotland responds to latest lockdown review and Finance Secretary statement
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said:
“While the First Minister’s indication of the likely sequencing for lifting restrictions is helpful, businesses will hope next week’s Strategic Framework brings much needed clarity and transparency about the weeks and months ahead. This should be driven by data and developed in dialogue with business."
16 Feb 2021
CBI responds to the latest GDP figures
Alpesh Paleja, CBI Lead Economist, said that until we can end the stop-start cycle of lockdowns, businesses need support to continue in parallel with restrictions.
“The Budget comes at a critical time for the UK. Extending the furlough scheme through to summer and continuing the business rates holiday for another three months will help safeguard jobs, livelihoods and communities across the country.”
12 Feb 2021
Businesses have vital role to play in supporting NHS staff - CBI
CBI North East Director, Sarah Glendinning, noted that business made remarkable contributions to the national effort from the outset of the pandemic, from pivoting operations to meet the ventilator challenge in spring, to donating PPE and food to those in need throughout the summer. She added:
"However, while the NHS continues to struggle under incredible pressure, some of the early support has dried up. After nearly a year fighting the pandemic, doctors, nurses and care workers need – and deserve - to know they have not been forgotten."
11 Feb 2021
Failure to act fast on Covid support will stunt UK economic recovery - CBI Director-General
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said the Resolution Foundation report provides telling data on firms’ precarious cash position. He added:
“First and foremost, we need extended business support to recognise the true health and economic picture. Then this support should be tapered down as the economy reopens. We then need a blend of long-term policy clarity and the right incentives to ensure businesses invest."
10 Feb 2021
CBI responds to new testing rules for international travellers
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said further, immediate support would be essential to protect companies and jobs in the aviation sector and its supply chains. He added:
"The government should also be clear on a roadmap to relaxing restrictions when health data permits. The UK’s world-class aviation sector – which underpins so much of our economic activity – must be supported so that it can play its full part in the country’s recovery."
09 Feb 2021
Parties must build new partnership for prosperity - CBI Scotland Holyrood manifesto
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said by making enterprise a genuine partner, the next government will be able to provide bolder, better and fairer solutions to the challenges Scotland faces now and in years to come.
“This election must be about rebuilding Scotland from the devastating impact of the pandemic. It’s crucial that the economy is front and centre of the political debate. A strong economy that creates growth and good jobs is the only sustainable way of raising wages, improving living standards and ultimately securing prosperity for all Scots."
05 Feb 2021
CBI Scotland responds to latest lockdown review and offers roadmap for re-opening economy
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said proposals to initiate a phased return of schooling later this month would help parents struggling to juggle work and childcare responsibilities. She added:
“Business has supported the strategic framework approach to reopening the economy, seeing it as a transparent way to explain decision-making around restrictions. By building a route map now for exiting the current lockdown, we can minimise economic casualties in the coming weeks and months.”
02 Feb 2021
Use time wisely to get roadmap right for re-opening
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said:
“There is huge appetite among businesses to help the Government create and deliver a roadmap out of lockdown that lasts, has national consensus and kickstarts our economic recovery as 2021 unfolds. A common framework with devolved administrations must also be possible and help to minimise differences in approach."
01 Feb 2021
CBI responds to aviation funding support announcement
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist welcomed the targeted support for the sector. She added:
“Prioritising public health remains critical, but government must recognise the disproportionate effects restrictions have on specific areas of the economy. The UK's aviation sector and supply chains now need a much more comprehensive package of support so they are ready to play a pivotal role in the economic recovery later this year.”
29 Jan 2021
CBI Wales responds to latest extension of lockdown restrictions
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said with public health the number one priority as we seek to significantly lower transmission, business understands the rationale for further extension of lockdown restrictions. He added:
“Getting funds as quickly as possible to those firms that need them most remains key to protecting jobs and livelihoods. Longer term business is looking to the Welsh and UK governments to work together to provide certainty around business support over the coming weeks and months – including extending the successful Job Retention Scheme until at least the end of June.”
29 Jan 2021
Government guidance can help firms ramp up workplace testing – CBI
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:
“Lockdown and the work from home guidance before that explain some of this, but not all. Encouraging businesses and helping them prepare to rollout workplace testing should form an essential plank of a return to normality in 2021. It will help create greater confidence among staff and employees, and when the time comes, support the reopening of the economy."
29 Jan 2021
CBI Scotland responds to Scottish Budget announcement
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said the UK and Scottish governments must now work together to provide certainty over business support.
“The private sector is critical to a successful recovery and moves to protect firms’ immediate futures are welcome. Continuing rates reliefs for the hard-hit hospitality, retail and tourism sectors is welcome, however a three-month window remains a challenging timetable for firms under real pressure. Companies will also be relieved to see a continued commitment to Covid business support and no further changes on income tax."
28 Jan 2021
CBI responds to latest Government announcements on Covid
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:
“Ongoing school closures will put real pressure on children and teachers, as well as parents who must continue to juggle work and home commitments. Business has a big role to play in charting a course out of lockdown that best protects firms, staff and customers. We are ready and willing to work with Government on their exit strategy.”
27 Jan 2021
CBI Wales responds to latest labour market statistics
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said while positive vaccine news has given everyone hope, evidence of unemployment gradually creeping upwards provides clear evidence that businesses and households are still bearing the brunt of the pandemic.
“The continuation of lockdown restrictions makes it ever more urgent that the UK and Welsh governments do everything they can to protect job and livelihoods. The Job Retention Scheme needs to run to at least the end of June to avoid a cliff-edge.”
26 Jan 2021
CBI responds to latest labour market data
Matthew Percival, CBI Director of People and Skills, said:
"Unemployment rising to 5% and continued high redundancies show the difficult decisions businesses face. The prospect of extending lockdown makes it urgent that the Chancellor acts now to extend job and business support. The Job Retention Scheme needs to run to at least the end of June to avoid a cliff-edge.”
26 Jan 2021
Support, skills and sustainability critical to delivering recovery-focused Scottish Budget
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said:
“CBI Scotland argues that a budget focused on support, skills and sustainability can bolster Scotland’s short and long-term economic prospects. That means protecting the companies that will deliver growth, investing properly in our workforce and building a net zero economy that not only delivers a better environmental future, but an economic one too. Sustainability can be a competitive advantage for Scotland for years to come and deliver a real jobs boost at a time when we need it most.”
24 Jan 2021
CBI comments on Skills for Jobs White Paper
Matthew Fell, Chief UK Policy Director, said continued partnership between business and education will ensure courses remain in lockstep with industry needs and give learners confidence they are gaining skills that lead to jobs.
“New technologies mean that nine in ten employees will need to learn new skills by 2030. Government commitment to delivering the flexible loan entitlement and boosting access to modular learning is hugely welcome and will support more adults into training. This should be backed up by turning the Apprenticeship Levy into a flexible skills levy at Budget."
21 Jan 2021
CBI Scotland responds to extension of nationwide lockdown
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said while the extension came as little surprise to business, the economic damage could not be underestimated.
“The Scottish Government must now redouble efforts to get business support to the firms that need it as quickly as possible. Similarly, the UK Government must look at extending the successful Job Retention Scheme to the end of June to protect jobs and livelihoods at risk. And both governments must work together on fuelling the much-needed economic recovery.”
19 Jan 2021
Government must act on Covid business support before Budget
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said:
“The rule of thumb must be that business support remains in parallel to restrictions and that those measures do not come to a sudden stop, but tail off over time. Just as the lifting of restrictions will be gradual, so must changes to the Government’s sterling support to businesses.”
19 Jan 2021
CBI responds to Supreme Court ruling on business interruption insurance
Flora Hamilton, CBI Financial Services Director, welcomed the much-needed clarity for UK firms. She added:
“At such an uncertain time, this court case provides... relief for smaller firms struggling with cashflow.
This is significant news for insurers, and regulators will need to work closely with the industry as policies, products and processes are updated to reflect this ruling.”
15 Jan 2021
CBI comments on closure of travel corridors
Matthew Fell, Chief UK Policy Director, said while done with the best of intentions the move would undoubtedly come as a further blow to aviation industry, highlighting the need for targeted fiscal support.
“This action also underscores the need for effective vaccines and testing regimes to be rolled out rapidly worldwide. Close coordination with business and further measures to rebuild demand will be essential for reenergising the aviation sector as restrictions begin to lift.”
15 Jan 2021
CBI Wales responds to First Minister's statement on COVID-19 business restrictions
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said business understands that there can be no return to normal until transmission is significantly curtailed, adding firms across Wales have worked tirelessly to keep their shops, offices and factories Covid secure for customers and employees.
“This latest announcement largely formalises processes that businesses are already doing. Support and advice around implementation, rather than an enforcement-first approach, on issues like ventilation will help to get premises get up to speed as quickly and safely as possible."
15 Jan 2021
CBI comments on November GDP
Alpesh Paleja, CBI Lead Economist, said with the country locked down for virtually all of November, the reduction in economic activity comes as no surprise. He added:
“Getting on top of the pandemic remains key to reigniting the economy. Businesses stand ready to lead the revival and continue to look to the Government to help them through to the recovery phase.”
15 Jan 2021
CBI Scotland responds to latest COVID-19 restrictions on Scottish business
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said businesses have a clear responsibility to help all employees who can work from home to do so. She added that when well organised, click and collect services instinctively feel like a safe way for firms to keep trading.
“It’s really important that the Scottish Government sets out compelling evidence that these services are a source of transmission and provides additional, urgent support to compensate for what would be a further loss of revenue in increasingly challenging times.”
13 Jan 2021
CBI Scotland responds to top-up in grant support for hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said the announcement of a further extension to COVID-19 support grants for the hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors is welcome and will undoubtedly help some of Scotland’s hardest-hit firms as they struggle with evaporating demand and day-to-day cashflow challenges.
“There is however no doubt that severe restrictions, while both understandable and necessary, are having a significant impact on jobs and livelihoods across the Scottish economy. After 10 months of adaptation, closure and sacrifice, businesses need to see clear evidence for these decisions.”
11 Jan 2021
CBI comments on Vaccine Delivery Plan
Matthew Fell, CBI UK Chief Policy Director, welcomed the Plan saying rapid roll-out of the programme would be crucial for business survival and getting the economy fully operational.
“Throughout the pandemic, business has stepped up at the service of the nation. It can do so again. The country needs an army of volunteers to deliver the vaccine programme, so where they can, firms should strive to make it easy for staff who wish to help. This won’t always be possible, of course, but businesses should be as accommodating as they can. And flexibility will be key when the time comes for staff to receive the vaccine."
11 Jan 2021
Our response to expansion of asymptomatic testing in England
Matthew Fell, CBI UK Chief Policy Director, said rapid mass testing is a key piece of the puzzle when it comes to getting on top of the virus. The health and safety of staff is paramount for employers, and they would be right behind this initiative. He added:
“This expansion of testing will help more critical workers and those unable to work from home to operate safely, while also catching new cases more swiftly. Ramping up asymptomatic testing to all workplaces will require hand-in-glove partnership between health services, local authorities and businesses in each and every community.”
10 Jan 2021
CBI response to extra business support during third lockdown
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, welcomed swift action from the Chancellor and said direct grants will provide some relief to eligible companies’ cashflow. She added:
“Extending the job retention scheme to end of the second quarter would provide firms with a clear line of sight, aiding planning and investment. And removing the business rate relief cliff edge in April will provide much-needed breathing space, as will re-examining the case for VAT deferrals."
05 Jan 2021
CBI Scotland responds to latest Covid-19 restrictions
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said firms understand that a sharp spike in infection numbers require a swift response to protect public health. But news of a national lockdown will be a severe setback for Scottish companies. She added:
“There’s now an urgent need for existing financial support to be unlocked, so companies can survive the Spring and beyond, and for Holyrood to clarify guidance on what constitutes an essential business."
04 Jan 2021
CBI response to PM statement on increasing covid restrictions
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said it is absolutely essential that we all put the health of our citizens first, and that businesses would continue to step up in the national interest to support the NHS, employees and customers. He added:
"There are now a number of imperatives for government to support business. First, ensuring firms have the cashflow to make it through. Second, the government must review and plug any coverage gaps from existing support. And third, firms must have a clear line of sight and assurance that support will be there for as long as restrictions are in place."
04 Jan 2021
Pragmatism not penalties can help new UK-EU relationship start strongly - CBI
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:
“As firms adjust to new processes and procedures, they will be keen to see quick progress on issues outside of the deal to support business. Greater regulatory cooperation on financial services and mutual recognition of professional qualifications, are just two business-critical issues that will make a material difference.”
31 Dec 2020
University of Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine approved
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:
"Approval of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine is hugely positive news, and a real feather in the cap for the UK life sciences sector. It adds another weapon to the UK’s pandemic arsenal, bringing us one step closer to returning to a more normal way of life."
30 Dec 2020
Our response to the UK-Turkey trade deal
Andy Burwell, CBI International Trade Director, said the agreement will maintain bilateral trade worth over £18bn and will shore up key supply chains across many industries after a year of disruption.
“Turkey’s customs union with the EU made a trade deal with the UK complicated, but the pace at which the deal has been finalised following the negotiated EU deal shows the strength and depth of the relationship."
29 Dec 2020
CBI responds as UK and EU agree Brexit deal
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said:
“Above all, we need urgent confirmation of grace periods to smooth the cliff edge on everything from data to rules of origin and we need to ensure we keep goods moving across borders. The UK has a bright future outside the European Union and with a deal secured we can begin our new chapter on firmer ground.”
24 Dec 2020
CBI response to tier 4 announcement
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director said wherever infections rise, it’s right that the Government takes the necessary steps to protect public health but the news was a real kick in the teeth for many businesses already struggling badly. He added:
“Support is there when business premises are forced to close and must reach firms swiftly, along with the recently extended loan and furlough support. But there’s no doubt a fresh look will be needed in January as to how the Government can support UK businesses through to the Spring.”
19 Dec 2020
CBI Northern Ireland responds to announcement of further forthcoming COVID-19 restrictions
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said businesses know infection rates must be controlled to save lives. But the actions of NI Executive in recent months to open and close the economy without a workable long-term strategy for living with the virus will cause companies great harm.
“Against the backdrop of trying to prepare for the end of transition, NI firms are faced with what is effectively a full lockdown at such a crucial time for many businesses – particularly those in the hardest-hit hospitality, retail and tourism sectors. This will come as a further blow after many months of hardship and once again puts further jobs at risk."
17 Dec 2020
New survey shows public back business handling of the pandemic – CBI/Porter Novelli/Opinium
Commenting on the research, Josh Hardie, CBI Deputy Director-General, said:
“Whether it’s Ventilator Challenge UK producing thousands of critical pieces of kit for the NHS, Lindhurst Engineering getting PPE to frontline workers or Business in the Community mobilising firms to support local communities through the National Business Response Network - 2020 has seen strong partnerships, public and private, deliver enormous benefit for wider society."
17 Dec 2020
CBI responds to extension of furlough and loans schemes
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, welcomed the increased certainty for business. She added:
“Stable employer contributions and an extension to the Job Retention Scheme until the end of April will mean the scheme continues to protect people’s livelihoods. And with cashflow difficulties still at the forefront of the minds of many business owners, continued access to Government-backed loans through to Spring will bring great comfort. In early 2021, businesses will likely need clarity about the level of support beyond the Spring to build a bridge to economic recovery."
17 Dec 2020
CBI Scotland responds to latest Scottish GDP figures
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said with Scotland entering back into a rolling cycle of tiered restrictions in the autumn, we’re likely to see the recovery taking a step back in Q4.
“Hospitality, retail and tourism firms have been amongst the most impacted by the pandemic, and the second hit caused by reintensifying restrictions may prove to be too much for some to bear. Additional support from the UK and Scottish governments – most notably the extension of the Job Retention Scheme – has been welcome. And the recent good news on vaccines gives hope for the future and may give some stimulus to spending."
16 Dec 2020
CBI Wales responds to forthcoming COVID-19 restrictions for December
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said businesses know infection rates must be controlled to save lives. Nevertheless, invoking what is effectively a full lockdown at such a crucial time for many businesses will come as a fresh blow after many months of hardship and once again puts further jobs at risk.
“It’s vital that any change to rules – anywhere in the UK – is shaped by clear evidence, consistently applied, and accompanied by increased support for businesses in the worst-hit sectors. Vaccinations are now underway and offer tangible reasons for optimism in 2021 – the government must do everything possible to help businesses survive until risks recede and trade returns.”
16 Dec 2020
CBI comments on labour market statistics
Matthew Percival, CBI Director of People and Skills, said while news of a vaccine has provided hope, many firms are still finding it difficult to operate within the toughest Covid restrictions.
“With millions more expected to be living under the toughest tier before the end of the week, the Government must continue to do what it can to help businesses get through winter.”
15 Dec 2020
CBI Scotland responds to latest labour market statistics
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said:
“While news of a vaccine has provided hope, many firms – particularly in the hardest hit hospitality, retail and tourism sectors – are still finding it difficult to operate within the toughest COVID-19 restrictions. That’s why the Scottish and UK governments must continue to do everything they can to support businesses through the winter.”
15 Dec 2020
CBI Wales responds to latest labour market statistics
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said the figures show how hard businesses and households are being hit by the pandemic, and the rolling cycle of restrictions put in place.
“While news of a vaccine has provided hope, many firms are still finding it difficult to operate within the toughest COVID-19 restrictions. The Welsh and UK governments must continue to do everything they can to support businesses through the winter.”
15 Dec 2020
Our response to the Online Harms Bill
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said the Government’s approach represents a step in the right direction, one that makes the UK a safer place to be online whilst taking a risk-based approach to targeted regulation. He added:
"The UK is showing global leadership in shaping the future of the internet. Regulation can and must play a leading role in tackling online harm, particularly amongst the most vulnerable, and help increase trust in the technology that people use every day."
15 Dec 2020
CBI responds to Energy White Paper and green light for Sizewell C negotiations
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said:
"Business stands ready to deliver the investment and innovation needed to turn ambition into reality, and the proposals outlined in the Energy White Paper will give firms further confidence to deliver new infrastructure, including electric vehicle charging, renewable power generation and low-carbon upgrades to people’s homes. The government’s decision to enter into negotiations over Sizewell C and to further develop financing plans for new nuclear is also welcome. "
14 Dec 2020
CBI responds to continuation of UK-EU trade negotiations
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said the news that talks will continue gives hope.
"A deal is both essential and possible. It is the only way to build upon the extensive support for the economy given by all governments during the pandemic. Without it, that progress is undermined. Ongoing delays are frustrating and cost businesses. But it is vital to make use of the time. Government must move with even more determination to avoid the looming cliff edge of January 1st."
13 Dec 2020
CBI comments on UK-EU trade negotiations
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, appeals to politicians on both sides of the Channel to find the path through.
"With less than 3 weeks to go, we also need to plan in parallel for 1st January, deal or no-deal. That means everything from border systems and processes to data adequacy and financial services equivalence. It also means allowing sensible grace periods for businesses to adapt to re-labelling of products and phasing in of border checks."
13 Dec 2020
Investment incentives needed to fast-forward Covid economic recovery
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said Covid-19 has left deep scars on the economy, but this forecast does offer grounds for optimism.
“We simply must find new ways to get businesses investing at the start of 2021 if we are to fast-forward the recovery. We’ve had great news on vaccines this week, but if we are to be masters of our own destiny then we must act decisively to rebuild a better economy.”
10 Dec 2020
CBI Scotland responds to additional COVID-19 business support
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, welcomed the new schemes, saying it's vital details are communicated clearly, that the application process is simple, and that funds reach firms in need as quickly as possible. She added:
“Continuing to ramp-up widespread testing would also help Scotland’s fragile economy to weather the difficult winter ahead. Businesses also want to know that there is a plan in place for after Christmas and that a return to the same cycle of severe restrictions is unlikely.”
09 Dec 2020
CBI Northern Ireland responds to NI Protocol agreement
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said it is now incumbent on both sides to intensify their engagement with Northern Ireland’s business community in the coming months to safeguard firms and consumers. She added:
"Business preparations also depend on a deal being done. While affording some time to adjust is welcome, questions remain on operational readiness and the longer-term impact for supply chains. This starts with turning legal text into practical guidance so firms can act."
09 Dec 2020
CBI responds to sixth carbon budget
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said now is the time for business and government to work together to deliver a transition that will secure economic recovery and sustainable growth.
“We have a short window of opportunity between now and COP26 to set the clear strategy we need to meet net-zero commitments. With that in place, business, government and society stand ready to deliver.”
09 Dec 2020
CBI welcomes publication of new government guidance Construction Playbook
Josh Hardie, CBI Deputy Director-General, said the publication of the Construction Playbook marks an important milestone in government’s efforts to overhaul procurement of public sector construction.
“To maximise its impact, the principles and guidance in the Construction Playbook now need to be rolled out across the public sector quickly. Adopting the Playbook’s ‘comply or explain’ principle, all public sector procuring bodies should plan to implement and embed the best practices within the Construction Playbook over the coming months.”
08 Dec 2020
