Following his attendance at the Prime Minister’s business council meeting, Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The increased tempo of engagement with business in recent weeks is welcome, as is the Prime Minister’s commitment to sustain that engagement over the crucial months ahead.
“High-level discussions with the Prime Minister and her Cabinet must continue, but we also need to see sustained and structured discussion with business on the dozens of practical, real-world questions that firms face as a consequence of Brexit. Only by working together on the detail can we minimise disruption and maximise confidence for firms across the UK.
“Our research shows clear support among the business community for the UK to reach a comprehensive agreement with the EU, and for a transition period which will prevent firms facing a cliff-edge. The prospect of multiple, costly, adjustments to trading conditions is a concern for many, so starting discussions on transition arrangements as soon as possible would go a long way to boost business confidence.
“Economic growth is slowing, with Brexit-related uncertainty part of the story. As we work to get the best possible deal with the European Union, the government must not forget to underpin confidence here at home. A domestic agenda that puts the economy and business growth front and centre remains absolutely critical.”
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