Commenting on the Queen’s Speech, Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive at Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, said:
“There is much that manufacturers will welcome in today’s speech with a number of measures designed to support business growth, ensure the UK is at the forefront of tackling climate change and, in particular, improve the UK’s productivity performance.
“In particular, industry will welcome plans to boost R&D, infrastructure investment and skills which is a critical factor for manufacturers right across the UK. Plans for a new points based immigration must support the skills agenda, however, by ensuring that companies are able to have access to the brightest and best from around the globe.
“Manufacturers will also welcome plans for a review of business rates which currently act as a disincentive to invest in capital equipment. In contrast to previous reviews however, industry will hope this one provides a radical reform to make a step change difference to business investment.
“It’s clear from the range of measures proposed that the new Government has a bold programme at home and towards re-shaping the role of the UK overseas. Industry stands ready to work in partnership to ensure that the vision to improve the growth prospects of every region of the UK is met.”