CBI calls for leadership candidates to build a prosperous post-Brexit Britain

The CBI has long been campaigning on behalf of business for a Brexit that ensures the future fairness and prosperity of the UK. A no deal scenario is estimated to cost the UK a long-term reduction in GDP of 8% - a bad deal for citizens and for business. It’s clear that a good Brexit deal, one that that safeguards jobs, growth and prosperity, is vital to the UK’s competitiveness. Now, prior to the election of the new Conservative Party leader, Carolyn Fairbairn has penned an open letter to the candidates, expressing the need for a partnership between business and government.

In her letter, Carolyn says:
“We have a clear message for the next Conservative leader and future Prime Minister. Champion business. Work with us in a new era of partnership to build a post-Brexit Britain that is both prosperous and fair. The UK has so many strengths. Working together we can approach the future with confidence and optimism.”

Representing the issues and opportunities that our members have identified, the CBI proposed three key goals for this partnership between business and government:

• Show the world the UK is a great place for business and boost investment by restoring the UK’s reputation as the stable and trusted country to start and grow a firm.
• Build a bold and compelling vision for the UK’s future on the world stage. Ensure every policy and business investment is targeted at the same goals, whether tackling climate change, equipping our young people for the future, or reducing the blight of regional inequality.
• Demonstrate that good business is good for society, and that profit and purpose go hand in hand. Across the country, firms are taking action on issues from prompt payment to pay gaps. Government backing will accelerate this progress.

The CBI’s open letter has been widely reported in the national press – from the BBC to the Financial Times – as a warning against the disruption and impact of a no-deal Brexit.

Carolyn says,
“Firms large and small are clear that leaving the EU with a deal is the best way forward. Short-term disruption and long-term damage to British competitiveness will be severe if we leave without one. The vast majority of firms can never be prepared for no-deal, particularly our SME members who cannot afford complex and costly contingency plans.”

As the leadership race unfolds, the CBI will continue to represent the interests of British business – ensuring that the voice of business can and will be heard on securing a Brexit that works for all.