Business Need Concrete Plans To Grow Economy

5th December 2024

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, responds to the Prime Minister’s Plan For Change, announced this morning

Responding to the Prime Minister’s Plan For Change, announced this morning, Shevaun Haviland, 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.” 

You might also be interested in

North Sea Plan ‘Doomed To Fail’ Without Tax Change

Thu 11th December 2025

The BCC has reacted to the Government’s recently released North Sea Future Plan. It commented after accompanying Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce to HM Treasury to hand in a letter signed by 7,000 businesses and workers.

BCC Economic Forecast: Budget Unlikely to Be Growth Game Changer

Wed 10th December 2025

The latest British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) economic forecast suggests last month’s Budget is unlikely to kickstart the UK economy. The first forecast by a major business organisation since the Chancellor’s statement shows the UK’s growth outlook.

Shorts: Autumn Budget Overview

Mon 8th December 2025

The Autumn Budget Statement is one of the most anticipated events in the UK’s financial calendar, shaping the economic landscape for individuals and businesses alike.

Pharma Deal A Welcome Boost For UK

Tue 2nd December 2025

Reacting to news of a pharmaceuticals deal with the US, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, said: