Queen 's Speech: Easing burden on business must be a priority - Chamber

A plan to ease the significant cost pressures on businesses must be at the heart of the Queen 's Speech, business leaders said today.

And measures to tackle the energy crisis should be a top priority for government, according to Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

The Queen 's Speech - which officially marks the State Opening of Parliament - takes place tomorrow and will outline the government 's plans for the next year, as well as any bills it plans to introduce.

The government 's Energy Strategy - in light of soaring energy costs - and changes to EU regulations that have remained in place since Brexit are expected to be introduced.

The GBCC is urging the government to bring forward a series of measures to help ease the burden on business, including business rates reforms and support for firms committing to sustainability.

Erin Henwood (pictured), policy advisor at the Chamber, said: “It is essential that the Government prioritises the measures that will most help businesses. Legislation to address the current energy crisis, for example, will need to be passed urgently to help ease the significant cost pressures firms are currently experiencing.

“Doing so will have the added benefit of ensuring more security and stability for the UK 's energy supply given the EU 's recently announced plans to phase out Russian gas and oil imports.

“The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce 's Q1 Quarterly Business Report highlighted significant concerns that businesses have about inflation, cost pressures and cash flow issues.

“Announcements to improve the domestic economy - such as through a commitment to no new taxes, meaningful business rates reform, and financial support for those embarking upon their sustainability journey - are imperative if the Government plans to help businesses build back better from the pandemic. ”

Read the Chamber 's guide to the Queen 's Speech.