The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has called on Brexit negotiators to take a stronger, clearer approach to Brexit, amid concerns that “division and disorganisation” in politics is putting the UK economy at risk.
Towards the end of December, the BCC – which represents 75,000 businesses all across the UK – said that the vast majority of its members were “dismayed” with the Government’s approach to negotiations so far.
Adam Marshall, Director General of the BCC, said that better organisation was needed in order to provide British businesses with greater clarity.
“Some very big decisions lie ahead,” he said, referring to discussions concerning the proposed Brexit transition period expected to begin next year.
“Getting the twin challenges of Brexit and the economic fundamentals right will require leadership, consistency and clarity – after a year in which business has been dismayed by what it sees as division and disorganisation across Westminster.”
He added: “Businesses have been very patient in waiting for clarity on Brexit in the 18 months since the referendum. That patience is now wearing thin. Businesses want answers, they want clarity and they want results.”
The BCC is not the only group to have voiced concerns.
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and the Institute of Directors (IoD) have all said that firms need clarity sooner rather than later in order to enable them to plan ahead accordingly.