News Item: 2024 CBI Conference Focuses on Economic Growth and Climate Change
HAE EHA attended the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) Annual Conference on Monday 25th November at the QE2 Centre in Westminster, represented by Public Affairs Manager Mark Bradshaw.
The CBI provides a ‘voice’ in government for businesses and industry bodies and the Hire Association is an active member, working with them across a range of topic areas.
During the day, business leaders spoke about technological change and how this needed to be managed with existing employees and structures.
An ageing workforce, plus high levels of economic inactivity and the ever present and widening skills gap were all discussed. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is clearly having a massive impact on a range of sectors, re-engineering processes and customer service.
There was a panel discussion on climate change and the global COP29 discussions. Upgrading national energy infrastructure, climate resilience and carbon reporting were key themes.
The new Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch spoke about the Tories’ intentions to renew their policy offering in time for the next election, without promising to reverse any of the changes announced in the Budget. She wanted a less interventionalist government.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves spoke about her Budget and recognised how unpopular it was with many in the business community. She spoke about her intention to stabilise the economy and push for economic growth, working with businesses. Public services would be expected to operate within their agreed budgets and she did not want to have another Budget like the one in October. The Corporate Tax Routemap was a commitment, as was no further tax increases on businesses.
If you have any questions about the topics covered at CBI Annual Conference, or other public affairs matters, contact Mark Bradshaw on 0121 380 4621.