Supporting UK businesses post-Brexit: how government and industry can work better together

Reform was delighted to hold this roundtable event on ‘Supporting UK businesses post-Brexit: how government and industry can work better together’, led by Richard Harrington MP, Minister for Business and Industry.

As the fifth largest economy in the world, the UK is, to many, a very attractive place to do business. As Brexit approaches, there is an opportunity to build on this to make the UK’s economy even stronger to attract inward investment and outward trading opportunities. The Prime Minister has already stated her commitment for a “new approach” from government when it comes to supporting businesses.

At the same time as supporting businesses to grow, the Government is looking to firms to help deliver its wider policy objectives. Firms are funding an apprenticeship levy, for example, to transform opportunities for young people. They are paying towards new auto-enrolment pensions which aim to create sustainable retirement provision for decades to come.

Brexit changes the terms of the debate for business policy. Government can only deliver a successful Brexit with business support. Equally, firms need to know more about government’s objectives and negotiating positions. It lifts the need for excellent political-business dialogue to a new level which would be a “win win” for both.

This roundtable discussed how government and business can work better together, with a particular focus on life sciences and other key sectors as well, showcasing examples of best practice and any challenges facing current government-business relations. It brought together around 20 – 25 senior attendees and was held under the Chatham House Rule.

This event was held in partnership with Baxter: