Improving productivity is central to delivering stronger economic growth,and skills are one of the most important levers businesses have to achieve it.

When firms can access and develop the right skills, they are better able to adopt new technology, improve management capability, innovate, export and compete.

New British Chambers of Commerce survey data shows that 67% of firms say better access to skilled employees would support growth in their organisation.

This briefing sets out how government can help unlock that opportunity by making it easier and more worthwhile for firms to invest in their existing workforce.