Strong case for EU reform, but more clarity is needed

16th January 2014

Commenting on today's speech on EU reform by Chancellor George Osborne, John Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said: -The Chancellor is right to say that the status quo is not a viable option that the challenge of reforming the eurozone will lead to institutional change with potential implications for non-euro countries within the EU.

Our polling evidence has consistently shown that businesses are pragmatic and back the plan for renegotiation and reform, but we must be as mindful of the future as we are of renegotiating the past. The Chancellor has set out a strong case for reform, but it has been a year since the Prime Minister announced his intentions on Europe, and we are still yet to learn what areas he will seek to negotiate. Firms want action on areas such as employment and health and safety laws, but also more information, so that they can plan ahead to invest and explore international markets both within and outside the EU.