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Business needs concrete plans to grow economy

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has set out his “plan for change” – six “milestones” he wants the voting public to measure his Government against at the next election.

All of the milestones are to be completed by the next general election, likely in 2029 – and in the case of clean power, to be “on track” for the 2030 deadline.

They are:

  • Putting more money in the pockets of working people
  • Building 1.5m homes and fast-tracking planning decisions on at least 150 major infrastructure projects
  • Treating 92 percent of NHS patients within 18 weeks
  • Recruiting 13,000 more police officers, special constables and PCSOs in neighbourhood roles
  • Making sure three-quarters of five year olds are school-ready
  • 95% clean power by 2030

Responding to the Prime Minister’s Plan For Change, announced this morning, Shevaun Haviland (pictured), Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “It was good to hear the Prime Minister double down on his commitment to grow the economy and highlight the importance of reforming the planning system.

“The target of 150 new infrastructure projects is one that business will welcome, with its potential to boost regions and reinvigorate supply chains. But there is still a huge gap between the what and the how and when.

“With a bruising budget forcing many firms to revisit their investment and hiring plans, the pathway to this promised growth needs to accelerate.

“The cost-of-living crisis and the cost of doing business – are two sides of the same coin. They can’t be dealt with in isolation. Boosting private sector investment is fundamental to improving the cost of living.

“That’s why it’s crucial that Government creates the right conditions for businesses to stay competitive and grow in communities across the UK.”

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