CBI: Our response to the Liberal Democrat manifesto

18 May 2017 02:42 PM

The manifesto has a strong focus on innovation and education, however, the UK must remain internationally competitive.

Image of Our response to the Liberal Democrat manifesto

Carolyn Fairbairn, CBI Director-General, said:

“The Liberal Democrat Party rightly places planning for the economy of the future at the heart of its manifesto, with a clear focus on spurring innovation and entrepreneurship, and on delivering a world-class education for our children to equip them with the skills to succeed.

“Solving the UK’s housing shortage is vital for workers and firms alike. For Britain’s businesses, it’s a problem that affects them on a daily basis, denting productivity and making it difficult for many to move home and bring their skills to new jobs. We have long called for a quiet revolution in the way business and politicians think about, provide and deliver housing, so firms will welcome ideas on helping first-time buyers and homeowners up the housing ladder.

“However, as we chart a new course in our relationship with Europe, it’s all the more important that the United Kingdom remains a highly attractive country in which to invest and create jobs. Reversing cuts to Corporation Tax and not getting behind Heathrow’s expansion will limit the country’s ability to remain internationally competitive.”