CBI President John Allan delivered his opening speech to #CBI2018 Annual Conference

Thanking members, he pointed to the collective strength of the CBI and the incredible results that strength has seen this year alone including –

• The biggest increase in government-sponsored R&D funding for 40 years; a step toward the CBI’s 3% target.
• Approval for the expansion of Heathrow; a decision for business that will benefit our whole country.
• A new government exports strategy; based squarely on the CBI’s recommendations.
• Far-reaching and much-needed reform to the Apprenticeship Levy.
• Major reform to the tax regime governing business investment.

But to ensure that the future continues to be prosperous, that working relationship between business and government must continue. The uncertainty of Brexit will hinder that future prosperity and that is why compromise and collaboration must be reached.

In just four moths time, Britain will leave the European Union. And to make that break without a deal will have long-term repercussions for future prosperity. In the short-term GDP will fall by 2%, in the long term – up to 8%. The message from business to politicians is clear – back the deal as another one is not waiting in the wings while the outcome of the 2016 referendum must be upheld.

In closing, he highlighted the role the audience must play in Britain’s future. Turning to the many business represented in the room from across all sectors to aid that future and keep working together for a more prosperous Britain.