UK just can’t afford any more ‘political paralysis’

A senior business leader is warning the UK cannot afford another wasted year of “political paralysis”, while productivity and investment suffers.

Carolyn Fairbairn, director general of the CBI, said whoever wins the general election, the top priority must be to work with business to provide “bolder, better and fairer” answers to the challenges facing the UK.

She launched the business group’s manifesto for political parties, which outlines steps the next government should take to unlock the UK’s competitiveness.

This includes reforming business rates, fixing the “broken” apprenticeship levy and completing vital infrastructure projects including HS2 and Heathrow expansion.

The CBI also called for a new immigration system which provides access to labour and skills, focuses on contribution, not numbers, and gives business time to adapt.

Speaking ahead of the CBI’s annual conference today, Ms Fairbairn said: “Public faith in our politicians and institutions continues to erode, the historic partnership between business and government is under strain. Business investment has fallen for 18 months and productivity growth remains stubbornly sluggish. Confidence in the UK is faltering.

“This cannot continue, but it is within our power to change it.

“We simply cannot afford another wasted year of political paralysis, indecision and distraction while productivity and investment suffer.”