The leading Scottish business organisation is calling on all main political parties in the UK General Election to prioritise economic growth and job creation.
The Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC), which represents 12,000 businesses across all sectors, has published a 15-point action plan for the next UK Government.
It wants Westminster to establish a Joint Economic Growth Board, a partnership between business and government, within their first 100 days in office to oversee an ambitious programme of pro-enterprise and pro-growth policies.
Key priorities for the SCC are a commitment to no new taxes or levies on business for the lifetime of the next Parliament, investment in a Green Industrial Strategy, boosting global trade, developing a skilled workforce, a detailed just transition plan for the oil and gas sector, and cutting VAT across the hospitality, leisure, and tourism sectors.
Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Director & Chief Executive of the SCC, said:
“The country succeeds when business succeeds. That’s why we are urging the next UK Government to work closely with the business community to deliver pro-growth policies to turbo-charge investment, innovation, and job creation.
“The economy is a top three issue for UK voters and the 12,0000 companies we represent are the drivers of economic growth and employ millions of people. We are calling for a clear focus on resolving the issues holding our economy back and stopping investment in jobs.
“Our 15-point policy plan means the next UK Government can get to work on day one and give our members and our employees the confidence that the Government backs business.”
Demands on the new government include four key areas: Unleashing Business Growth, Accelerating Investment, Boosting Global Trade and Prioritising People & Talent.
The SCC want the next UK Government to:
Unleash business growth by:
Accelerate investment by:
Boost global trade by:
Prioritise people and talent by:
Dr Cameron added:
“Our members are clear that a Joint Economic Growth Board where business and UK government work in a meaningful, constructive partnership can unlock growth and help support struggling sectors. Each of those policy priorities can go a long way to deliver a strong platform for sustained growth and employment.”
Scottish Chamber of Commerce guides to the election:
GE 2024 Summary Guide The Party Manifestos
Perth and Kinross-shire canditates