Our response to A303 High Court judgment
Ben Rhodes, CBI Acting South West Director, said increasing capacity on the A303 – while protecting the world heritage Stonehenge site – has long been a priority for thousands of businesses across the region.
“This legal decision does not lessen the need for a sustainable solution. Government must now gather the necessary evidence to ensure this much needed infrastructure upgrade can go ahead in a way which meets the UK’s net zero targets and maintains the heritage of the site."
30 Jul 2021
CBI responds to new rules for EU/US air arrivals
Tom Thackray, CBI Director of Infrastructure, said:
“The news will come as a significant boost to the beleaguered travel industry, while also restoring important business links with key trading partners.
The task now is to implement these changes as rapidly and smoothly as possible, which should include an efficient pre-travel system of assessing passengers’ Covid-status to prevent congestion at airports.”
28 Jul 2021
Our response to the Government's Disability Strategy
Matthew Percival, CBI Director of People and Skills policy, said:
“Supporting disabled people to get in and get on at work benefits businesses as well as wider society. Employers expect there to be more opportunities for flexible working in the future and support the introduction of unpaid carers leave. The CBI will support the development of guidance on how businesses should collect, analyse and report data on disability in their workforce.”
28 Jul 2021
"This won't get us where we need to be" - CBI responds to the publication of exemption list
John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said:
“If we want the economy to stay open, we need a confident but balanced plan. We should bring forward the date from 16 August when those who have been double-jabbed no longer need to self-isolate if they test negative once contacted. We also need a test & release scheme for those who have not been double jabbed. And we should use testing and Covid safety measures to promote a culture of safety and mutuality in workplaces, shops, hospitality and public transport."
25 Jul 2021
Our response to news of 600,000+ asked to self-isolate in one week
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said:
“We can end the pingdemic by bringing forward the date by which all those who have been double-jabbed no longer need to self-isolate if not infectious and introducing a test & release scheme. We must also ensure workplaces have access to an effective, accessible testing regime. With workplace testing due to end in a matter of days, firms need urgent clarity on how community testing will work in practice.”
22 Jul 2021
CBI responds to the UK Government Innovation Strategy
Felicity Burch, CBI Director of Innovation, said the commitment to increasing investment to £22bn for R&D provides an important signal to business ahead of the spending review.
“This strategy is an important step in ensuring innovation plays its full part in driving economic recovery and addressing the biggest challenges facing society such as decarbonisation, levelling up and health. We are pleased to see the scale of ambition and the focus on unleashing business innovation and investment."
22 Jul 2021
Our response to UK Government statement on Northern Ireland Protocol
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said months of deliberations, businesses are exasperated that the Protocol continues to dominate the headlines with no end in sight.
“Firms are determined to make it work, and to see it bring much needed prosperity to Northern Ireland. That starts by the Joint Committee delivering on the Business Consultative Working Group immediately. It’s time for the EU and the UK to bring business into the discussions to break the deadlock."
21 Jul 2021
Our response to Government's consultation on sexual harassment in the workplace
Matthew Percival, Director of People and Skills Policy, said:
“Companies agree that they should have policies, procedures and cultures that reduce the likelihood of sexual harassment at work as well as responding appropriately when incidents occur. The Government and EHRC should work with companies to ensure the new statutory code of practice explains what taking 'all reasonable steps' means and gives employers confidence that they are meeting their responsibilities.”
21 Jul 2021
'Speed is of the essence' - CBI outlines solution for self-isolation
CBI President, Lord Karan Bilimoria, said:
“With restrictions being lifted and cases rapidly increasing, we urgently need a surefooted approach from government, creating confidence to secure the recovery. This starts by immediately ending the self-isolation period of ten days for people who are double-jabbed and providing a route out of isolation for those not yet fully vaccinated through daily lateral flow tests (see notes to editors). Against the backdrop of crippling staff shortages, speed is of the essence."
18 Jul 2021
CBI responds to news of more than 500,000 people contacted by Test and Trace
CBI President Lord Karan Bilimoria, said:
“The government should urgently bring forward its plans to July the 19th, currently set for August the 16th, to allow double-jabbed individuals not to self-isolate if they have been informed by the NHS Test and trace that they have come into contact with a Covid positive individual. Furthermore, those who have not been double jabbed should not have to self-isolate if they take daily lateral flow tests which record as negative for a prescribed number of days and report them to the NHS.”
15 Jul 2021
Director-General responds to PM levelling up speech
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said:
“Levelling Up is not only vital to prosperity and opportunity in all parts of the UK, it’s also a core requirement for our competitiveness in the global economy. The PM is right to recognise the importance of creating confidence among businesses to invest, and empowering local leaders to deliver."
15 Jul 2021
CBI responds to news of more than 500,000 people contacted by Test and Trace
CBI President Lord Karan Bilimoria, said:
“The government should urgently bring forward its plans to July the 19th, currently set for August the 16th, to allow double-jabbed individuals not to self-isolate if they have been informed by the NHS Test and trace that they have come into contact with a Covid positive individual. Furthermore, those who have not been double jabbed should not have to self-isolate if they take daily lateral flow tests which record as negative for a prescribed number of days and report them to the NHS.”
15 Jul 2021
Response to labour market statistics
Matthew Percival, CBI Director for People and Skills, said that short-term, aligning planned changes to self-isolation to the reopening and including a test and release mechanism would help staff shortages.
"To ease acute shortages the government should also immediately update its shortage occupation lists to include jobs ranging from butchers and bricklayers to welders. Longer term, firms must continue to strengthen inclusion while investing in skills and automation. And government can help by ensuring that the qualifications it funds include those in short supply.”
15 Jul 2021
Employers to step up skills investment as Covid transforms work – CBI/Birkbeck Education & Skills Survey
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:
"Firms are currently facing a perfect storm of staff shortages worsened by rising levels of self-isolation. They’re taking immediate steps to resolve this, investing in skills and automation and strengthening inclusion. But the Government needs to play its part too on skills and immigration. Longer-term, the Skills & Post-16 Education Bill is an opportunity to deliver on the confidence of most firms that they can meet skills needs in 3-5 years’ time."
15 Jul 2021
CBI Wales responds to First Minister’s latest statement on COVID-19 restrictions
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said firms will now be looking to the Welsh Government to provide clear and consistent guidance on safety proposals as soon as possible to give firms time to plan ahead.
“Further clarity on plans for workplace testing, indoor social distancing, self-isolation, and ventilation would all help immeasurably as we seek to rebuild confidence among businesses and consumers.”
14 Jul 2021
CBI responds to Government’s transport decarbonisation plan
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said firms will hope this plan is followed swiftly by a Heat and Buildings Strategy, a Hydrogen Strategy and an overarching Net Zero plan – all promised to be delivered ahead of COP26 in November.”
“Phase out dates for polluting vehicles across road, rail and aerospace will send an important signal to markets and investors. These must be backed up with credible plans to accelerate the development of clean technologies like hydrogen and Sustainable Aviation Fuels, as well as a comprehensive plan for rolling out charging infrastructure for electric vehicles."
14 Jul 2021
CBI Scotland responds to First Minister's latest statement on Covid-19 restrictions
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said it is now mission critical that the Scottish Government, with the support of business, does all it can to build confidence in the reopening.
“Developing a more agile and responsive test and release system for self-isolation will be a key part of that. The removal of the requirement for contacts of positive cases to isolate from 9 August is welcome, but Covid-related absences are hitting firms hard now and impacting their ability to trade their way to recovery."
13 Jul 2021
CBI comments on step 4 of roadmap
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said it is now mission critical that the Government, with the support of business, does all it can to build confidence in the reopening.
“Part of that is evolving the test and trace system to be fit for purpose in this new phase. That means minimising the need for self-isolation, introducing a test and release scheme swiftly and making it that bit easier for people, especially those who are double jabbed, to go about their business."
12 Jul 2021
Business puts forward six point plan for creating confidence
Outlining the CBI’s six-point plan for cementing confidence and reinforcing the recovery, Director-General Tony Danker said:
“Learning to live and work with the virus is the right strategy. But we need to ensure this is a confident not an anxious transition, otherwise it won’t work. Businesses have had a real boost this week with the Prime Minister’s plans for the final stage of the reopening. What’s needed now is a concerted effort between business and government to create widespread confidence from the get go.”
11 Jul 2021
CBI responds to latest UK GDP statistics
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said while more businesses were able to reopen their doors, times remain tough for our hardest hit sectors, particularly aviation and international tourism with some missing out on valuable summer trade to recoup their losses.
“With further pent-up demand providing an engine for growth, all signs point to a promising economic outlook for the UK over the course of the year. It’s now critical business and government work together to rebuild customer and employee confidence in living with the virus, while also maintaining progress in tackling the pandemic itself.”
09 Jul 2021
CBI responds to government's international travel update
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said for operators, clear guidance on how new rules will work are essential to enable the sector to salvage part of the summer season.
“The end of quarantine for fully vaccinated journeys between amber list countries is hugely welcome news for the international travel sector, which has suffered more than most during the pandemic. It is now imperative that business and government work together to rebuild confidence and restore demand as we establish new travel norms while living with the virus."
08 Jul 2021
CBI response to Covid self-isolation changes
John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said:
“Boosting customer and employee confidence must now be the absolute priority for supporting the economic recovery and learning to live with the virus. Developing a more agile and responsive test & release system for self-isolation will help give firms greater confidence in being able to plan for the future."
06 Jul 2021
'Step 4 will succeed if we work together to boost confidence' - CBI Director-General
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said reopening will provide huge relief for many firms who have struggled to stay afloat during the pandemic.
“Critical now will be to build both customer and employee confidence in living with the virus. This will require businesses to continue putting safety at the heart of their approach as they have since the start of the Covid crisis and Government providing a vital role in supporting employers through guidance and advice."
05 Jul 2021
CBI responds to Labour vision for future of UK business
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said:
“After a year like no other, Labour is right to focus on how best UK businesses in all parts of the UK can be supported so that we truly shift from crisis to recovery. Exploring ways in which UK enterprises – large and small – can succeed in public procurement and lift standards makes sense. It’s also important that we remain an attractive location for Foreign Direct Investment."
04 Jul 2021
'When London succeeds, the country succeeds' - and now is the time to transform our economy for the better, says CBI
CBI Director-General Tony Danker said: London’s global competitiveness should be at the top of our minds. Because when London succeeds, the rest of the country succeeds.
“This is a unique moment in London’s history. This year, we’ve had a global pandemic, a tech surge, a new EU relationship, and we’re months away from COP26. We will never have a greater opportunity to transform our economy and society, for the better, than right now. This is our chance."
01 Jul 2021
Gigafactory announcement vote of confidence in greener UK economy
Responding to the gigafactory announcement, Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said:
"This announcement signals the success of concerted efforts between business and government to seize the moment by creating jobs fuelled by decarbonisation. It must be the spark for six more gigafactories needed by 2040 to support a thriving electric vehicle market and prompt investment in widespread charging infrastructure."
01 Jul 2021
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said:
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said:
“Extension of the chilled meats grace period is a welcome step forward. Time must now be spent wisely by the UK and EU to mutually agree workable lasting solutions."
01 Jul 2021
CBI responds to the UK Government's plan to phase out coal by 2024
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said:
“Bringing forward the unabated coal phase-out date demonstrates the UK is leading by example in shifting our reliance on fossil fuels in the power sector. The move from coal to renewable generation has been made possible by having clear ambition and policies in place to transition at pace and scale."
30 Jun 2021
CBI responds to government review of international travel green list
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said while welcome, these limited movements on green list countries won’t be enough to salvage the summer season for the international travel sector.
“International connectivity extends far beyond tourism and underpins our whole economy. The UK’s successful vaccine rollout means we should be in the vanguard of safely restarting international travel. Other countries are already pressing ahead with enabling travel for the fully vaccinated. The government must show more urgency to implement a truly risk-based system."
24 Jun 2021
"It is incumbent on both sides to work together & settle outstanding issues" - CBI Director-General on NI Protocol
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said:
“After months of deliberations, it is time to focus on outcomes not legal precedent or self-interest. Let's see the people of Northern Ireland being put first, starting with a bespoke veterinary agreement and trusted trader arrangements for the movements of goods and medicines in the UK internal market."
24 Jun 2021
CBI responds to the Climate Change Committee report
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said:
“With all eyes on the UK for COP26, it’s important the UK steps up and shows leadership - we can only inspire global action through domestic progress. That means delivering a plan to drive forward the UK’s net zero transition and unlock fresh investment."
24 Jun 2021
"We can’t be first on vaccines, but last to reopen international travel" - CBI President
Looking ahead to the review, Lord Bilimoria, CBI President, said:
“We must build on the success of the vaccine programme by removing quarantine restrictions for those who are protected. And to make better use of the green watch-list, avoiding last-minute surprises of countries shifting from green into amber."
23 Jun 2021
CBI Scotland responds to Covid economic reopening plan
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said there would be some dismay from hard-hit hospitality, leisure and tourism firms, and the announcement brings into sharp relief the need to better support the international travel sector.
“Above all, it’s good to see the Scottish Government taking tangible steps towards living with the virus. Using vaccination coverage as a key data point, alongside long-term hospitalisations and deaths, is a welcome step forward. However, a lack of support for workplace testing remains a key gap in promoting recovery."
22 Jun 2021
CBI responds to European Council approval of EU/UK data adequacy
Russell Antram, CBI Head of EU Negotiations, said securing a positive decision on data adequacy from the EU was a priority for thousands of businesses across the UK – and today’s announcement will be a massive relief.
“The free flow of data between the UK and the EU is essential for businesses across the economy – from automotive to logistics – playing an important role in everyday trade of goods and services."
18 Jun 2021
UK economy back to pre-covid level by end of year
CBI Director-General, Tony Danker, said there are really positive signs about the economic recovery ahead this year and next. The imperative now must be to seize the moment to channel this investment into the big drivers of long-term UK prosperity.
“Clearly this does not apply to the hardest hit sectors from the pandemic who even now face continued delays and genuine challenges to stay viable. Extending the commercial rent moratorium will help keep some firms’ heads above water, but the Government must also do the same on business rates relief."
18 Jun 2021
Commercial rent moratorium extension response
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:
"The extended moratorium will come as a relief for many, but with much of the economy already open and trading this was a missed opportunity to resume normal market activity for those tenants and landlords who are in a position to do so. Many have already agreed new leases and debt settlements, yet there is a minority of firms that should be paying rent, but are not."
16 Jun 2021
CBI responds to the UK-Australia trade deal
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said the Agreement in Principle marks a significant milestone towards a full trade deal with Australia. She added:
“It is essential now that both sides finalise negotiations and ensure meaningful safeguards are put in place for industries, including agriculture and high environmental standards. Businesses must prepare to seize the moment by exploring the growing opportunities of trading with Australia.”
15 Jun 2021
Make 2021 boldest year of UK net zero action - CBI Director-General
Tony Danker, CBI Director General, said with just under five months until the UK hosts COP26 we need to raise global ambitions and make this the boldest year of net-zero action yet.
"This means securing stronger, binding commitments and concrete plans from every country to deliver the Paris Agreement. It also requires the UK to accelerate a global approach to carbon markets, sustainable finance and the shift to clean power."
14 Jun 2021
CBI responds to 21 June delay in England
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said public health comes first, so while a delay is regrettable, it’s understandable. He added:
“Continuing restrictions means the Government must urgently revisit the support available. That starts with holding back on the tapering of business rates relief and extending the commercial rent moratorium for those sectors most impacted. A solution must also be found for the hard-pressed international travel sector."
14 Jun 2021
CBI responds to G7 Communique
Lord Bilimoria, CBI President, said the G7 in Cornwall has reignited a belief that the international community can come together in a spirit of collaboration to tackle the big issues of our age.
“After this weekend, the UK must now lead the charge, building up momentum to wider agreements this year at the G20 and COP26 in Glasgow. Businesses have a significant role to play in protecting biodiversity and creating a sustainable future for all."
13 Jun 2021
UK-EU veterinary agreement could ease trade
John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said exploring a bespoke solution before grace periods end in the coming months will help bolster trade and support the ongoing recoveries across Europe.
“By agreeing an approach where both parties create some form of recognition of each other’s animal health and veterinary rules, the majority of SPS checks could be removed for goods between the EU and Great Britain, and Great Britain and Northern Ireland."
09 Jun 2021
CBI responds to G7 global tax agreement
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said:
“Finding agreement on international tax at the G7 is no mean feat and will light the touchpaper for the wider multilateral process at the OECD. Consensus on corporation tax means that a real sense of momentum can now build ahead of the G20 later in the year, helping to pave the way forward for an international tax system that is simpler, more sustainable and easier to comply with."
05 Jun 2021
CBI Wales responds to latest Covid review
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said hospitality firms and businesses in the live events sector will be relieved to see a further loosening of restrictions that will boost summer trading. He added:
“Firms will also be looking to government to provide clear guidance on Covid-status certification and social distancing in the weeks ahead.”
04 Jun 2021
CBI responds to international travel update
John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said it's crucial the new travel rules drive a globally competitive recovery while managing risks and safeguarding public health.
“Travel policy needs to effectively prevent the spread of Covid from potential ‘red’ list countries, but also safely allow for more travel from lower-risk destinations. This could help boost business travel, fuelling growth by reconnecting firms with global markets."
03 Jun 2021
CBI Scotland responds to Covid review
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said for hard hit sectors like hospitality, leisure and tourism in areas now moving to level one, the further easing of restrictions will provide a much-needed boost. She added:
“For those areas that remain under tighter restrictions, owners and staff will have their fingers crossed that health data allows for a further easing of restrictions in the very near future. Firms across the country are also looking for clarity as soon as possible on the Scottish Government’s plans for social distancing requirements and Covid-status certification for the weeks and months ahead.”
01 Jun 2021
End to commercial rents stalemate can help economic rebound - CBI
CBI Chief UK Policy Director Matthew Fell said the blanket government protections for non-payment of commercial rents should be lifted. While some sectors remain heavily restricted or fully closed, ongoing protections should be targeted towards the firms most at risk in these sectors. He added:
“The majority of tenants and landlords have already come together for adult-to-adult conversations to settle commercial rent arrears; those businesses yet to enter into negotiations should now do so and work hard to reach an agreement, or risk court decisions that may be less favourable.”
03 Jun 2021
CBI responds to update on Trade Credit Reinsurance scheme
Chris Wilford, CBI Head of Financial Services Policy, said there is growing concern amongst firms about the future of Trade Credit Insurance (TCI) market following the end of the government’s guarantee at the end of June.
"It is vital that there is clear guidance on what businesses need to do to ensure coverage beyond the end of the TCI guarantee to smooth the transition towards a normalised market. The CBI welcomes the joint statement by the government and insurance industry and will continue to actively engage to find a solution.”
26 May 2021
CBI sets out new UK economic strategy
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said:
“Our plan is to make the UK the most competitive, dynamic and future-focused economy in the world. Become a beacon to the world in achieving green growth. Decarbonising our economy is a planetary imperative, we can use our transition to net zero to create green jobs, to find sustainable solutions and sell them to the rest of the world."
23 May 2021
Our response to G7 climate ministerial communiqué
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said G7 nations should prioritise national policies to support the development of markets that value nature-positive business activity.
“The G7 communiqué delivers the ambition, urgency and decisive action that businesses, consumers and others have been calling for ahead of COP26. Business stands ready to play its part by working with governments around the world to drive decarbonisation and achieve net zero commitments."
21 May 2021
CBI responds to Williams-Schapps Plan for Rail
Matthew Fell, Chief UK Policy Director, said:
“Bringing together track and train, with genuinely independent oversight, should further boost accountability and tackle the current fragmentation which has hampered service improvements. A 30-year strategy offers the stability required for long-term business investment and innovation."
19 May 2021
CBI responds to latest labour market statistics
Matthew Percival, CBI Director of People and Skills, said:
"Having the highest number of vacancies since the pandemic first hit shows the value of the roadmap for reopening the economy. However, businesses are starting to report vacancies they're struggling to fill so government support for skills and retraining is essential."
18 May 2021
CBI NI responds to latest review of covid restrictions
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said getting the green light to proceed to the next step of reopening will be of real relief for Northern Ireland’s hardest hit firms.
“The Executive can inject further momentum into the recovery by providing companies with greater clarity on outstanding issues, including social distancing and the future of workplace testing. Cooperation across the UK and with the Common Travel Area on these important factors will be key."
13 May 2021
CBI responds to release of Q1 GDP figures
Alpesh Paleja, CBI Lead Economist, said latest data confirms the economy was hit once again by a renewed lockdown at the turn of the year, the fall in activity was much smaller compared with Spring 2020.
“To inject momentum into the recovery, the government should provide clarity on outstanding issues around re-opening, including social distancing, access to workplace testing and use of Covid-status certification.”
12 May 2021
CBI Scotland responds to latest review of COVID restrictions
Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said a big effort is needed from both the Scottish and UK governments over the summer to support business and economic recovery across the country.
“Further reopening of some of Scotland’s hardest-hit sectors comes as a huge relief to business owners that have endured a torrid year of lockdown restrictions. Having lost out on festive trading, hospitality, leisure and non-essential retail firms will be looking to the weeks ahead with greater optimism than for some time."
11 May 2021
Queens's Speech reaction
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:
“The strong focus on skills will support high quality, local jobs. The emphasis on rail, bus and digital will better connect local economies. And a fresh approach to innovation will unlock big, bold ideas and new sources of growth around the country."
11 May 2021
CBI responds to PM announcement on Covid reopening
John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said it's encouraging to see the roadmap remains on track, with the certainty it’s provided businesses so far already evident in recent economic data.
“Meanwhile, the Government can inject further momentum into the recovery by providing companies with clarity on outstanding issues, including social distancing, covid status certificates and the future of workplace testing beyond June 21."
10 May 2021
Growing productivity and tackling inequality are key to post-Covid levelling-up - CBI
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief of UK Policy, said every region has strong sectors and clusters of excellence around which it can rebuild.
“Government and business must therefore work together to make the necessary long-term investment in the critical structures, training, and innovation needed to support jobs and quality of life around the UK. This long-overdue levelling-up can lay the foundation for a better, greener and fairer economy for all.”
10 May 2021
CBI responds to new rules on international travel
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:
"Today's clarification of country classifications must be the first step towards a genuine reopening of international travel. The priority now has to be to work with business to lower cost barriers to safe travel and build the evidence base for safely reopening quarantine-free travel to more key destinations - reconnecting UK firms with key markets for a globally competitive recovery."
07 May 2021
CBI responds to the new UK-India trade deal
Lord Karan Bilimoria, CBI president, said:
“The enhanced trade partnership will usher in a new era of UK-India relations and shows the world the strength of our relationship. Paving the way for a future UK-India Free Trade Agreement and setting the ambition of more than doubling bilateral trade from the current level of £23 billion by 2030. As leaders in tech and innovation this enhanced partnership will unlock opportunities for businesses, boost job creation and growth across the country."
04 May 2021
CBI hosts global business summit ahead of G7
Lord Bilimoria, CBI President said action on the climate emergency, making the case for free trade and tapping into the true potential of the digital age, are issues that cannot wait for tomorrow.
“Now is the time to start creating opportunity and prosperity in all corners – to shape our global, post pandemic future. And it is business who stands ready to lead the way in building a better world.”
04 May 2021
Four nation cooperation on future of social distancing "key piece of recovery jigsaw" - CBI Northern Ireland
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said indicative timings have proven invaluable in helping businesses to forward plan and develop contingencies with confidence.
“By asking both Governments to show their hands sooner rather than later, we can develop a consistent way forward for firms across the UK. By communicating early and clearly, both Governments can help businesses to plan, prepare and invest.”
01 May 2021
CBI NI comments on reopening of hospitality, retail & leisure
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said hospitality, leisure and non-essential retail firms will be looking to the weeks ahead with cautious optimism.
“Government support has provided a lifeline during an unprecedented twelve months. But with firms still low on cash, confidence and demand, additional help from the Executive will be needed. Further financial support could offer flexibility and help cushion firms during a precarious restart phase where jobs and livelihoods remain in the balance."
30 Apr 2021
Employers can lead reduction in commuter transport emissions - CBI
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, said:
“A key change will be for businesses to now take greater responsibility for their employees’ commutes. They should factor these emissions into their net-zero strategies and set out tangible steps to help their teams make greener journeys."
30 Apr 2021
CBI responds to publication of new Covid Recovery Commission report
Tony Danker, CBI Director General, said business stands four-square on the need to create a fairer, more resilient economy post-Covid and to accelerate the race to net zero.
“The Commission’s findings provide yet another proof point of a growing consensus in the business community for industry and government to work together to take on the biggest issues we face."
28 Apr 2021
CBI responds to European Parliament ratification of Trade and Cooperation Agreement
Tony Danker, CBI Director General, said:
“Ratification of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement is a decisive step forward, but it’s far from the end of the process for business. The next phase is normalising relations between the UK and EU, in order to smooth trade and maximise the benefits of the new economic partnership.”
28 Apr 2021
CBI responds to the G7 Digital Ministerial Declaration
Felicity Burch, CBI Director of Digital, said:
“Over the last year, digital technologies have acted as a bedrock of resilience for economies. This agreement can be a springboard for an inclusive, sustainable recovery and industry is ready to play its part to deliver this shared vision.”
28 Apr 2021
CBI Wales responds to quicker easing of Covid restrictions
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director, said bringing forward the easing of specific lockdown measures will be greatly welcomed by business owners, particularly those in the hardest-hit leisure and hospitality sectors.
“With Covid rates falling and the vaccine programme performing well, employers and consumers will be able to look ahead to the summer months with renewed optimism following a tough year.”
23 Apr 2021
Our response to the UK's new 78% emissions reduction target by 2035
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said the target emphasises the importance of the 2020s as a decade of delivery on our climate ambitions.
“As COP26 hosts, the UK Government is leading by example by setting this stretching target. Business stands ready to deliver with the latest low-carbon technologies and innovations that are driving emissions down every year. By tackling this together, we can reap the benefits of transition to a low-carbon economy."
20 Apr 2021
CBI responds to the latest labour market statistics
Matthew Percival, CBI Director of People and Skills, said:
“Evidence continues to mount that it is young people's jobs that have been hardest hit by lockdowns. Support for jobs and training will be vital to making the UK’s economic recovery inclusive. Government should confirm that the extra lockdown at the beginning of the year means that the Kickstart Scheme will remain open for longer to allow businesses the time to deliver opportunities for young people.”
20 Apr 2021
Industrial clusters in every region the only way to level up - CBI chief
In his address, Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said:
“True levelling up will not be achieved by regions working towards identikit – and at times competing – economic strategies. Rather, it will come from areas knowing their strengths, recognising the opportunities this can create, and capitalising on them to forge their own path to long-term prosperity.”
19 Apr 2021
CBI Northern Ireland responds to easing of Covid restrictions
Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said:
While this announcement – in conjunction with progress in vaccine rollout – does offer real hope, every effort must continue to be made to support businesses as they seek to get back up and running. That means the UK Government and Executive working together to instil public confidence and bolster the private sector while the economy gets back on its feet.
15 Apr 2021
CBI responds to Global Travel Taskforce announcement
John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said firms will welcome confirmation of a risk-based ‘traffic light’ approach to travel routes, alongside the scaling back of onerous quarantine restrictions for travellers from some destinations.
"Key milestones to review progress must be agreed in partnership with the travel industry, their supply chains and wider sectors that rely on global connectivity to ensure the most appropriate balance between driving economic recovery and protecting public health.”
09 Apr 2021
CBI response to PM Covid update
John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said knowing the Covid roadmap is on track can help create the economic momentum the country needs as the second phase of reopening begins. He added:
“Restarting international travel is vital for all parts of the economy, including tourism. The new traffic light system is a simple, risk-based approach that business has been calling for. It should be implemented alongside straightforward border arrangements, advance testing where necessary, and high-quality communications about any future changes to a country’s status."
05 Apr 2021
CBI Wales responds to lockdown roadmap
Ian Price, CBI Wales Director welcomed the publication of the route map for a economic restart in Wales that puts safety first, but added a unified approach across the UK was vital for instilling public confidence:
“We know from experience that the economy can’t be turned on and off like a light switch, meaning that a challenging and uncertain few months still lie ahead. Every effort should be made to support businesses as they seek to get back up and running following such a long-term break in trading."
01 Apr 2021
CBI responds to Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities report
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director, recognises progress has been made, but argues there is a long way still to go on supporting the career progression of ethnically diverse employees:
“When it comes to supporting the career progression of ethnically diverse employees, transparency is the watchword. And while progress has been made, there is a long way to go."
31 Mar 2021
Our response to the UK/EU financial service memorandum of understanding
Flora Hamilton, CBI Financial Services Director, said effective regulatory cooperation between the UK & EU on financial services will lead to better services for customers.
“Together with earlier draft data adequacy decisions, businesses will want this Memorandum of Understanding to signal growing services cooperation between the two trading partners.”
27 Mar 2021
CBI responds to additional business rates relief
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said this latest relief will now help some of the forgotten supply chain businesses hit indirectly by restrictions and offers more support to the devolved nations, so credit to the Government for listening to the concerns of business. She added:
“It’s a tricky balance to strike, but other firms whose revenues have been hard hit by the crisis will certainly be highly frustrated that their appeals for discounts will be null and void now.”
25 Mar 2021
CBI responds to latest Government-backed loans figures
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said Bounce Back loans have been a standout success, with lenders working at speed to get emergency funds to companies in their hour of need.
“From unveiling substantial measures at the outset of the pandemic to announcing the Recovery Loan scheme at Budget, the Treasury has taken bold, decisive steps to protect livelihoods throughout this crisis. Government support has saved countless jobs and businesses."
25 Mar 2021
Our response to the TUC's AI at work report
Felicity Burch, CBI Director of Innovation & Digital, said AI has the potential to transform the workplace, by giving employees more time to focus on decision-making, creativity and customer service.
“To help build public trust businesses must continue engage employees closely, invest in the right governance processes and embed a culture of lifelong learning.”
25 Mar 2021
CBI responds to Tax Day
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist said firms want to see that same decisiveness shown at Budget used to fundamentally reform the unfair business rates system.
“We look forward to working closely with the Government to help deliver that simpler, modern tax system that promotes business investment and the move to a low carbon economy.”
23 Mar 2021
Response to ONS labour market statistics
Matthew Percival, CBI People & Skills Director, said clear evidence about the impact of the pandemic on young people over the past year reinforces the need to extend the deadline for the Kickstart scheme for another six months.
“With approximately five million people still on furlough, the Chancellor’s move to extend and taper the scheme will help support many jobs as the roadmap for reopening gets underway."
19 May 2020
