Monday 15 May 2017

Business election call for a Brexit that works for London

London's leading business organisation, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) today renewed its calls for the capital's workforce to be protected as political parties continue to lay out their manifesto policies.

The calls are published in LCCI's London Business Manifesto "Capital Matters" setting out its key asks for the next Government to ensure that London continues to maintain its status as a globally competitive city.

LCCI believes it is vital that as the next Government delivers a Brexit that works for London by:

Granting indefinite leave to remain for existing EU national employees within the capital to reassure them and their employers.

Establishing a separate 'Shortage Occupation List' for London (like Scotland has) and create a 'Capital Work Permits' system to meet employers' future labour needs.

Securing a realistic transitional period for Brexit to enable businesses to adjust to new circumstances and prioritise minimising costly tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade.

Prioritising the preservation of aviation and maritime arrangements with the EU to secure swift market access and maintain London's status as a global hub.

Chief Executive of LCCI, Colin Stanbridge said: "London's success cannot be taken for granted. London's workforce is unique and heavily reliant on migrant workers especially in certain sectors.

"The is why not only do we need a realistic transitional period, but also a guarantee of indefinite leave to remain for existing EU worlds and a separate Shortage Occupation List in the future to ensure our labour market remains fit for purpose."

LCCI has compiled Capital Matters as a result of recent polling and research on numerous issues affecting businesses of all sizes across the capital.

ENDS

Media contact
Katharine McGee
T: +44 (0)20 7203 1897
M: +44 (0)7827 241528
E: kmcgee@londonchamber.co.uk

NOTES TO EDITOR:
1. LCCI is the capital's most representative business organisation, with members ranging in size from multi-national companies to SMEs and sole traders.
2. Colin Stanbridge, Chief Executive, is available for further comment and interview.
3. More information on LCCI's calls to protect the London workforce are available in the recent report Permits, Points and Visas which can be found here
4. To read the full manifesto Capital Matters, please click here