Chamber submission to Chancellor Philip Hammond
Two of the largest Chambers of Commerce in the north of England have come together to prepare a submission in advance of the 2016 Autumn statement. Greater Manchester and West & North Yorkshire Chambers have been increasingly working more closely on issues which effect businesses across the M62 corridor and beyond.
Infrastructure and the ability to connect business with the labour market and customers is regularly cited as a concern by member companies and both Chambers would like to see commitment from the Chancellor to develop HS2 and HS3 (the proposed east -west high speed line connecting Liverpool to Hull and Newcastle via Leeds and Manchester), both developments will provide greater connectivity and capacity. In addition we need to see commitment to upgrading existing local and regional rail infrastructure to ensure commuter journeys are more pleasant and convenient in turn encouraging more people out of their cars.
The country’s future relationship with Europe will be a major source of concern given it currently makes up 52% of the north of England’s exports. Similarly, the Chambers have asked for clarity over the future of EU nationsla currently working in the north of England.
The submission goes on to request commitment to devolutions, skills and digital infrastructure; a copy of the full submission can be downloaded here
