UK economy 'still stuck in first gear'

24 Jul 2020

The UK's economy is 'still stuck in first gear', with many businesses operating at half their pre-coronavirus (COVID-19) capacity, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

The BCC's Coronavirus Impact Tracker found that over half of businesses were suffering from reduced demand. In fact, customer demand and possible future local lockdowns were rated the two top obstacles to maintaining day-to-day operations.

A third of firms said they intend to make redundancies over the next three months, with 13% of businesses having already laid off staff.

Commenting on the survey, Adam Marshall, Director General of the BCC, said: 'Our findings demonstrate that the UK's economic restart is still very much in first gear. Businesses are grappling with reduced customer demand, an ongoing cash crunch and the potential for further lockdowns during an uncertain autumn and winter ahead.

'The time has come for the government to take radical steps to slash the tax burden around employment to help companies pay valued staff, rather than the Revenue.

'A major boost to the Employment Allowance and an increase in the threshold for employers' national insurance contributions (NICs) should both be in the Chancellor's sights if he wants to help viable companies save jobs as the furlough scheme comes to an end.'

Copyright

© 2024 Michael Letch & Partners LLP. All rights reserved.

We use cookies on this website, you can find more information about cookies here.
Contact Us

Please call:
01277 655 626

Quick links

Home | Contact us | Site map | Accessibility | Disclaimer | Privacy | Help |

Address
Michael Letch & Partners LLP, 146 High Street, Billericay, Essex CM12 9DF

Michael Letch & Partners LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registration number OC328815.

Michael Letch & Partners LLP is regulated by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants in the United Kingdom.

Michael Letch & Partners LLP is also regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to carry out specific activities and investment advice (registration number 112064).

The term ‘Partner’ is used to refer to a member of Michael Letch & Partners LLP. A list of members is open to inspection at our registered office at 146 High Street, Billericay, Essex, CM12 9DF.

Michael Letch & Partners LLP is registered to carry out audits in the UK by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.