It was a privilege to host today’s discussion, which saw a wide-ranging conversation with business leaders and ICAEW members about the significant economic headwinds facing the UK, and the importance of the voice of business in finding solutions.

It was encouraging to hear the Leader of the Opposition give recognition to the role that ICAEW members specifically play, advising three million businesses across the UK every day. Our profession brings unmatched insight to the challenges and opportunities shaping the UK economy. As chartered accountants, we understand all too well the importance of ensuring the numbers add up.

In introducing the Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch, I was clear in my message that the UK needs growth to turn around its economy, and that business must be given what it needs to succeed. That means:

• the certainty of knowing there won’t be further tax rises around the corner;
• the confidence that an overly complex system will be made easier; and
• the encouragement that barriers to growth will be removed and investment incentivised.

You can watch my opening remarks in full and read more insights from the event.

ICAEW will always provide independent, evidence-based advice, and that is the advice we would give to anyone managing the public purse.

ICAEW has long served as a platform for open, constructive engagement between policymakers and the business community, and today was no exception. We encourage all policymakers to engage carefully to what business is telling them, and will continue to represent our members’ interests to the highest level of political decision-making.

My sincere thanks to all members who were able to join us today, and to the Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch MP for engaging with our profession at such a crucial moment.

Alan Vallance
CEO
ICAEW