CBI comments on Future Forces White Paper
4 Jul 2013 09:37 AM
The CBI has commented on the publication of the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) Future Force 2020 White Paper.
Dr Neil Bentley, CBI Deputy Director-General, said:
“Businesses across the UK recognise the importance of national security, and the role the armed forces play in keeping us safe.
“Future Forces 2020 will significantly increase the number of reservists in the workforce and require an additional commitment from businesses. We’re pleased the MoD has listened to businesses’ concerns, in particular the need to work in partnership with firms rather than taking a purely legalistic approach, to minimise any potential disruption.
“We particularly welcome the plans for improved communications and the additional financial support to smaller businesses announced in the White Paper. Alerting businesses earlier about mobilisation will make things easier and a single point of contact for employers is a real step forward.
“But the Government must work hard with businesses and ensure the transition to this new approach is as smooth as possible.”
Note to Editors:
The CBI is the UK's leading business organisation, speaking for some 240,000 businesses that together employ around a third of the private sector workforce. With offices across the UK as well as representation in Brussels, Washington, Beijing and Delhi the CBI communicates the British business voice around the world