Concern over Brexit skills shortages

A leading business group is warning the best Brexit deal “won’t be worth the paper it’s written on” if companies cannot recruit staff.

British Chambers of Commerce said the next UK Government must have a clear idea of how to support economic growth by improving competitiveness and upgrading physical and digital infrastructure, said the BCC.

It also called for the status of EU nationals to be protected and for an immigration system that was responsive to skills shortages.

BCC director general, Dr Adam Marshall, said: “While businesses all across the UK want a good Brexit deal, they are very clear that decisions taken here at home matter as much, if not more, to our future growth prospects.

“The best possible Brexit deal won’t be worth the paper it’s written on if firms cannot recruit and train the right people, get decent digital connectivity, or get their goods to their market.

“At this election, business communities want a clear commitment from all parties to create the best possible conditions for growth, in every region and nation of the UK.”

The Federation of Master Builders also said the ability to retain and recruit migrant labour was crucial.

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said without freedom of movement, political pledges on future infrastructure and housing will not be deliverable.

Mr Berry said: “The UK construction sector’s demand for skilled migrant workers from the EU and beyond cannot be overstated. Pre-Brexit, 60% of small construction firms are already having trouble hiring bricklayers and that’s before the UK abandons the free movement of people.”

Brian Berry, chief executive of the Federation of Master Builders.