Businesses need stability to plan confidently for the future – RSM boss

With a few days to go until the General Election, the regional boss of audit, tax and consulting firm RSM has called on the next government to deliver stability and certainty to help Midlands businesses plan for the future.

Ahead of Thursday’s vote, Helen Brocklebank has urged the next government to put in place a framework that will enable businesses to invest and grow. 

Ms Brocklebank (pictured), RSM’s regional managing partner in the Midlands, said: “With just days to go until the UK general election, the short six-week campaign period has undoubtably created a certain level of uncertainty, albeit temporary, which is impacting regional businesses.

“Businesses in the Midlands need stability and more certainty in the economic environment, as a result, some are currently holding off from significant projects, particularly those in manufacturing.

“Once businesses know which policies will be implemented, combined with boosts to consumer spending power from NI cuts, real wage growth, inflation back at 2 per cent and interest rates likely to fall from the summer, this will put them in a good position to pursue long-term investment decisions.

“Regardless of the election outcome, regional businesses will welcome certainty and stability to allow them to plan for the future.”

Ms Brocklebank said the next government should prioritise an industrial strategy that focuses on technology and infrastructure, while also addressing skills and productivity gaps.

She adds: “Pressure intensifies on the next government to put an industrial strategy high up on the agenda, which focuses on tackling productivity, upskilling the workforce and investing in technology and infrastructure.

“Without a clear framework, businesses will lack the confidence to make decisions about strategic investments to support future growth in the Midlands.”