Responding to Kemi Badenoch’s speech at the Conservative Party Conference, Jonny Haseldine, Head of Business Environment Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“The Leader of the Opposition’s decision to put business-led economic growth at the heart of her conference speech is one that will resonate with firms.
“She rightly identified the damaging impact rising costs are having on businesses across the UK. Our cost stack calculator shows domestic policies from successive governments, since 2016, have increased business costs by over 70%.
“Her pledge that any future Conservative government would halve employer national insurance contributions for under 25s is an encouraging signal. However, a full employer NICs cut for young people is needed if we are to tackle the ongoing youth employment crisis.
“Badenoch’s announcement on inheritance tax will also chime with many of the family businesses in our membership. Firms need a tax regime that rewards investment, supports growth and provides the certainty they need to plan for the future.
“But it was disappointing to hear the Tory leader dismiss serious discussion about the UK’s trading relationship with the European Union as simply ‘reopening the Brexit debate’. The exporting firms we represent are crying out for simple, practical steps to make doing business with the EU cheaper and easier.
“As the Conservatives shape their policies, the Chamber network stands ready to work with them to help keep the UK competitive for businesses looking to start, grow and invest.”