Initial comment on general election outcome

Congratulating the Prime Minister on his election victory, as reported at 7.00am, British Chamber of Commerce Director General Dr Adam Marshall said:

“Restoring business, investor and consumer confidence – and firing up the economy – must now be the Prime Minister’s top priority.

“Campaign slogans must give way to a renewed focus on the details that matter. Our business communities need to see swift, decisive action to avoid a messy and disorderly exit from the EU and to tackle the barriers holding back investment and growth here in the UK.”

Businesses’ priorities for the new government include:

– Avoiding a no-deal exit from the EU and delivering a smooth transition giving firms time to prepare.

– Acting rapidly to reform business rates and replace them with a fairer system.

– Pressing ahead with improvements to transport infrastructure including HS2,Nothern Powerhouse Rail and additional capacity at Heathrow.

– Investing in our skills base and reforming the Apprenticeships Levy so that more small firms can access high-quality training locally, at affordable cost.

– Delivering a sensible immigration system that gives firms access to essential overseas talent at all levels-