Prime Minister Andy Burnham has held his first calls with leading business representative organisations, setting out what the government described as a new offer to Britain’s job creators.
The organisations involved included the CBI, British Chambers of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, Make UK, Small Business Britain and Startup Coalition. The government said they represent hundreds of thousands of firms, from major employers to start-ups and high street businesses.
Mr Burnham outlined a partnership based on investment, job creation and economic growth. The government said its approach would give businesses greater certainty, clearer long-term direction, faster decision-making and a stronger role in shaping policy.
The Prime Minister also referred to action announced this week to provide 20% relief for pubs, clubs and music venues. Ministers said the measure was intended to reduce costs for town centre businesses and support places valued by communities.
The government said it wants a more agile state, with more decisions taken closer to communities, employers and investors. It argued that over-centralised decision-making has slowed investment and regeneration in some areas.
Alongside closer working with business, ministers said the state would take a more active role where markets and regulators are not delivering for working people, including in energy, water and other essential services. The Prime Minister also called on businesses to help tackle rising youth unemployment.