“Today’s Spring Statement, which comes amid rising gilt rates and energy prices, shows again that growth must be the government’s first priority. The only way to tackle the cost-of-living crisis is to support businesses to grow by addressing the barriers they face. The Chancellor outlined a wide range of policies designed to do this, but far more urgency is required in the delivery on these plans. And government needs to heed the calls of employers who are worried that some policies will make the situation worse.
“Today, too many of Britain’s businesses are still on the brakes and leaving our growth underpowered, while international businesses find the UK less attractive than they did once. The upcoming announcements on youth unemployment including apprenticeship reform, need to tackle disincentives to hire created by poor regulation and high taxes, as well as ensuring skills support is more effective.”
Neil Carberry added:
“Having just one fiscal event each year gives employers much needed stability, allowing them to get on with running their businesses without the distraction of constant tax and spending speculation.”
