Responding to the Chancellor’s Mansion House speech, Kate Shoesmith, Policy Director at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“There were clear themes in tonight’s speech by the Chancellor that businesses will hope are carried on by Andy Burnham’s new administration.
“Over the last two years, the Chancellor has supported important steps in the right direction. Her ambition to build a closer trading relationship with the EU is something that will resonate with many firms. Reducing barriers with our largest trading partner can lower costs, boost export opportunities and support growth for firms of all sizes.
“The commitment to further devolution is also encouraging. Business leaders on the ground understand the strengths and challenges of their local economies, so any transfer of powers must be accompanied by meaningful engagement with the Chamber Network. It remains rooted in communities and connected to firms in every region and nation.
“A focus on strategic procurement is another important step. Our recent Great British Supply Chain report highlighted the opportunities to use public procurement more effectively. Revamping the system couldstrengthen domestic supply chains, support SMEs and create growth across the whole country.
“Businesses will be keen to see these ambitions carried forward and translated into practical action that delivers investment, growth and prosperity in every part of the UK.”