A business-led action plan for the new government.
The country succeeds when business succeeds. That’s why we are asking Keir Starmer to work closely with the business community to help deliver the most pro-growth policies to turbo-charge investment, innovation and job creation.
The economy is a top three issue for UK voters and the companies we represent are the drivers of economic growth and employ millions of people. Our policy plan means the new government can get to work and give our members and our employees the confidence that the Government backs business.
Unleash Business Growth by: |
| 1. Commit to no new UK taxes or levies on business for the lifetime of the next Parliament. |
| 2. Cut the VAT rate for hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors to boost spending, stimulate demand and support footfall in towns and cities. |
| 3. Reduce alcohol duty to ensure the flagship industry is competitive, supported to grow, export, and create jobs. |
| 4. Restore an internationally competitive, tax-free shopping incentive for overseas visitors. |
| 5. Investing in new and existing innovation districts across Scotland’s cities as part of a new Industrial Strategy. |
Accelerate Investment by: |
| 1. Introduce a Green Industrial Strategy to drive investment through incentives, green skills and enable technologies such as sustainable aviation fuel and Carbon Capture Usage & Storage. |
| 2. Implement the Union Connectivity Review by boosting air and rail links between UK nations and regions. |
| 3. Instil confidence and unlock investment in the oil and gas sector by committing to maintain investment allowances and future exploration, as well as consider ending the Windfall Tax. |
| 4. Creating a detailed just transition plan to net zero for the oil and gas sector, to protect jobs and investment as well as ensure energy security as we move to new sources of energy. |
| 5. Fund the futureproofing of Scotland’s towns and cities, by investing in their resilience, growth, regeneration and attractiveness to citizens, businesses, visitors and investors. |
Boost Global Trade: |
| 1. Increase exports by increasing the number of exporting SMEs and improve access to the EU – the UK’s largest trading partner. |
| 2. Prioritise and invest in air routes of strategic importance including exporting routes and tourism routes. |
Prioritise People & Talent: |
| 1. Help people transition successfully from Universal Credit into work, by increasing taper relief, boosting uptake of bootcamps, and providing high quality careers advice for job seekers, returners and career changers. |
| 2. Develop a skilled migration strategy to attract international talent, including tailoring for Scotland’s skills and working population needs. |
| 3. Recognise the value of international students and retain the post-study visa ensuring the UK is competitive with global higher education hubs. |
