In February, a Chamber led, joint Norfolk/Suffolk delegation went to see the Energy Minister in Westminster. Among the topics raised with him, was the alignment of the six UK COREs (Centre of Renewable Engineering), of which Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft is one. At present four of the six COREs have Assisted Area status – Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft is not one of these. It would benefit our region’s CORE if it was also awarded Assisted Area status, as this would level the playing field when promoting Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft, both nationally and internationally.
Following the delegation’s visit to Westminster, Brandon Lewis, MP for Great Yarmouth and Peter Aldous, MP for Waveney wrote a joint letter to the Treasury raising the issue of Assisted Area status and the Enterprise Zones. A reply has now been received from the Treasury.
Danny Alexander, on behalf of the Treasury, has outlined that the Assisted Area status is being reviewed, as a new Assisted Area Map is due to come into force in 2014. The rules of eligibility for Assisted Area status are determined by EU Regional Aid guidelines, which are also currently being revised by the EU Commission. Their review is due to be finalised in May or June of this year. The Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) has advised that it is due to undertake a public consultation on the designation of Assisted Areas later this year.
John Morse, President of the Great Yarmouth Chamber Council said: “There are many potential opportunities in both the offshore renewables and the oil and gas industries that Great Yarmouth could benefit from. A level playing field, in terms of Assisted Area status, would help ensure the Great Yarmouth Enterprise Zone has the best chance of securing future economic growth and attracting further inward investment.
Once details of the consultation are known, the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, along with other organisations, will be calling for the support of the business community in and around Great Yarmouth to input into the consultation and help highlight the case for awarding this region’s CORE Assisted Area status.”
Exports index rises 0.95% in Q1 2013 – but falls 1.5% on Q1 2012
Confidence among exporters remains high, but is slightly down on the previous quarter
SMEs experience uplift in their export orders, compared to businesses of other sizes
Businesses more likely to take on new staff than in Q4 2012
The latest DHL/BCC Trade Confidence Index report – which measures UK exporting activity (Export Index) and business confidence (Confidence Index) – shows that confidence levels in future turnover and profitability remain high, but there was a slight fall from Q4 2012.
Overall, the index number used to calculate the volume of trade documents required of all businesses exporting outside the EU, now stands at 114.84; this represents an increase of 0.95% on Q4 2012 and is now the second highest since records began three years ago, although if compared to the same quarter in 2012 the figure is 1.49% down.
Responses from more than 1,800 firms reveal that export orders and sales fell when compared to Q4 2012, however when broken down the services sector fall was marginal compared to the manufacturing sector. There was also a small increase in the number of businesses planning to take on new staff, particularly within medium and larger firms.
The key findings from the report are:
Over one-third of exporters (41%) said their export sales increased in Q1 2013, compared to 14% of respondents, who said that they decreased;
In the services sector, export sales increased for 44% of firms, down from 46% in Q4 2012. In manufacturing, export sales increased for only 36% of firms, down from 45% in the previous quarter;
Small firms’ order balances increased by 2% and medium firms’ order balances increased by 11%. Larger firms however reported a fall of 10% and micro firms a fall of 3%;
59% of exporters feel that their turnover will increase throughout 2013. 50% believe that their profitability will improve in 2013;
More than a quarter of firms (28%) said that they expected to increase staff this year, up from 27% in Q4 2012.
Tracey Howard, International Trade Director, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce said: Norfolk exporters are demonstrating a high level of confidence and Norfolk Chamber has seen increased numbers attending export training courses, as local exporters try to ensure that their staff a fully conversant with the latest rules and regulations.
Our recent ‘Global Market Place’ series of events highlighted that Norfolk exporters continue to look for ever expanding new markets in a bid to increase their export capacity. The success of Norfolk exporters has been shown when it was announced that two Norfolk-based companies: Omex Agrifluid Ltd, based in King’s Lynn; and Structure-Flex Ltd in Melton Constable; had both won a Queens Award for Enterprise in International Trade.
Commenting, John Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “Although the manufacturing sector recorded a sharp fall in exports, the UK’s larger services sector continues to drive overseas trade. Optimism remains high amongst the UK businesses I visit week in, week out, who are determined to grow, create wealth, and break into new and fast-growing markets abroad, in spite of the continued risks facing UK exporters.
“These results are a mixed bag, and reflect the challenges still being faced by those trading internationally. We need more companies to take the plunge and start exporting and to do this they need support from government, particularly through investment in trade promotion. If we are to win the ‘economic war’ that the Prime Minister has described on numerous occasions, we need both a more enterprise-friendly environment and a large-scale increase in the resources and attention dedicated to supporting international trade.”
Commenting on the report’s results, Phil Couchman, CEO of DHL Express UK and Ireland, said: “It’s really encouraging to see SMEs forging the way for British businesses overseas, particularly in this time of economic uncertainty.
“The Export Index shows there are clearly still opportunities for British businesses to expand into overseas markets, as it remains at historically high standards, a fundamentally positive indicator.
“As the eurozone crisis continues to erode both business and consumer confidence, those businesses that are looking to trade internationally should be taking advantage of the potential of Asia and emerging territories. The government has estimated that by 2030, Asian consumers’ spending is expected to be around 32 trillion dollars annually or about 43% of worldwide consumption – a major opportunity for businesses of any size.”
An Introduction to Getting it Right for Your Business
Customers receive information from a range of marketing channels. The Marketing Channels workshop will help delegates define who their customers are, develop clear marketing messages and identify the most effective marketing channels to reach them.
This will include highlighting key points to help develop these channels successfully and a clear plan of action for delegates to develop.
Aimed at business leaders from established companies who wish to define, or re-define their marketing plans, the workshop will be rich in content, informative, interactive and practical.
Key Outcomes Delegates will develop a clear understanding of: ·
The definition of marketing – what it is ·
Customer demographics ·
How to establish a niche/unique selling point ·
How to develop marketing messages ·
A range of marketing channels and how to develop them effectively including: – website and SEO – social media (Linkedin, Facebook and Twitter) – PR – leaflets – face-to-face marketing including public speaking, attending exhibitions and meetings ·
The key elements of an Action Plan
Sources of further information
Who is it for?
This course, as with all the Scale-Up New Anglia and New Anglia Growth Hub events, is suited and intended for businesses already running and established. Ideally, those businesses who are looking to grow their customers and increase sales and loyalty.
Please refer to courses by NWES and MENTA for courses more suited for those businesses who are pre-start or have been trading for less than 12 months.
Do you know the difference between the types of agent and distributor and their roles? Knowing the differences and where each one may be appropriate is essential for avoiding potential costs of getting it wrong.
This half day course covers the vital area of agency and distribution. It examines the differences, EU legislation, and finding, appointing and motivating you partners and highlights the pitfalls and costs.
Aims
• To have an understanding of the difference between agents and distributors and their roles
• Know what EU laws have to be considered when appointing agents
• Know what to consider when appointing an agent or distributor
• Understand the advantages and disadvantages of each
• Understand the legal implications of appointing agents and distributors
This course also covers: how to find agents or distributors, sources of help, changing an agent or distributor, sample agreements, memorandum of understanding and how to minimise legal costs.
Who Should Attend?
This course is suitable for anyone involved in the export or import process such as; accounts, purchasing / buyers, freight forwarders, shipping, goods inward staff and many more.
Testimonials
“This course has given me a greater understanding on how agents and distributors work and the contracts and stages involved with finding one suitable.”
“A greater understanding and more confidence when dealing with agents and distributors.”
Cancellation Policy
15% of fee payable if delegates cancel more than 7 days in advance. If less than 7 days the full fee is payable.
One of the ‘core 10’ courses accredited by British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). Candidates achieving Pass or Merit in the course will receive a certificate. Those who pass 6 individual courses will achieve a nationally recognised Foundation Award in International Trade.
To book onto this course please send an email with your requirements to export@norfolkchambers.co.uk or call 01603 729707
Rhino Building Supplies, Acle are very proud to be associated with East Anglia Brickwork Ltd in their drive to support young people wishing to begin a career in the construction industry as apprentice bricklayers. Darren Critchlow, Director of East Anglia Brickwork Ltd, Zoe Gabriele of Rhino and Gary Smith the onsite apprenticeship teacher & mentor met for a chat about their exciting new apprenticeship programme.
So tell us a bit about the apprenticeship programme:
I wanted to bring in qualified brickwork teachers willing to work on a live site mentoring and laying bricks/blocks alongside apprentices. We have set up the programme based on 4/5 apprentices with 3 or 4 bricklaying mentors onsite. We plan to build the programme each year – adding 4/5 apprentices. The apprenticeship is 2 years training to achieve the new brickwork standard level 2 which has taken the place of the old NVQ level 2 qualification. The training is all on site and the benefit of having a qualified bricklaying teacher is that the theory work can also take place onsite. This means that on wet days when they are unable to work onsite – they will then use the onsite classroom for theory – allowing the apprentices to utilise the good weather days to polishing up their practical skills.
We are keen to expand into multiple programmes and to do this we are looking for:
Brickwork Teacher – willing to teach theory on the wet days and work hands on mentoring and laying bricks alongside the apprentices on dry days. This position will be full time employment with bonuses for each apprentice that achieves qualification of the programme.
Bricklayer Mentor – willing to work hands on mentoring and laying bricks alongside the apprentices. The benefit to this is that they will be able to pass on knowledge and watch the apprentices develop into a quality bricklayer with all the key principles to improve our industry. This is a full time, self-employed position with bonuses for each apprentice that achieves qualification of the programme.
Apprentices – Anyone of any age keen to pursue a career in brickwork. The programme accommodates up to 6 months paid trial period before committing to the full-time employed apprenticeship. This is basically up to a 6-months probation period where they will learn labouring and basic brickwork skills. This allows us to get to know the candidate and the candidate can get a good feel for the company and our principles. The apprenticeship is fulltime employment for 2 years with the opportunity to progress as a bricklayer with East Anglia Brickwork Ltd.
Why did you want to do this and include mentors to bring along new people?
“Gary Smith our Teacher on site worked training apprentices at RG Carters Academy for 15 years and I was trained by him when I completed my apprenticeship at RG Carter. I hold the same passion as Gary for helping people who are passionate about the trade I love. I also like the fact that we have created an opportunity for the more experienced bricklayer to become a mentor and not worry about having to lay a quota of brick or block to make their days money. It’s a great option to put less stress on their body and mentor the apprentices who will in turn cover the quotas to make the programme works on a financial basis – making this programme sustainable ” – Darren
“Darren is now running a successful brickwork contracting company and providing work for approx. 45 bricklayers and for that I am really proud and happy to be involved in this idea working as a mentor for these apprentices.” – Gary
“I always wanted to be a bricklayer when I was young but I struggled to get an apprenticeship. At that time I was taken on by RG Carter and completed my NVQ L3. These days it has all changed and classed as a brickwork standard L2. I enjoy seeing others progress and do well and in my experience investing time into development and training can only be for the good. It does give a certain amount of loyalty but even if the guys when they finish move on to work for others or start their own business or move away we would have done our bit to help improve the industry” – Darren
“The apprentices I met on site at the time of my visit all seemed keen to learn and be involved. Cameron told me that East Anglia Brickwork were the last people he tried and was starting to lose hope as every previous phone call had said they were not taking on apprentices” – Zoe
What is a key benefit to this type of apprenticeship programme?
“Darren and Gary both told me that they both recognised that even with the apprenticeships it was a challenge to spend time to observe the proper skills without designated mentors. With some apprenticeship schemes the apprentice would be sent away off site to college and taught there but apart from photographs it was hard to get a feel of the flair or competency of the individual. Training and working alongside the apprentice’s day in day out was so much easier and brings about lots of positives. We personally and strongly believe this is the best type of apprenticeship to offer in brickwork”
Does the programme run every day?
“In the trade when you are faced with wet days as a bricklayer often you have to pack up but the beauty of this scheme is we can now do theory work in a designated classroom based on site resulting in them continuing their learning and maximising the weather issues we face in our trade.” – Gary
“On the site I visited this is still work in progress as they intend to include a covered area just outside the classroom to allow for practice sessions. I spoke with my cement supplier Southern Cement who were also happy to get involved and offered a free pallet of cement to assist with the course.” – Zoe
Can most building methods be covered in this way?
“Definitely, for example in Norfolk there is a preference for Flint work in many areas of the county but finding someone who is able to train people in how to do this can be problematic. We have some great flint layers in our company. We often have flintwork projects which we can include within the programme – this is where the mentors can help and it gives the apprentices a broader range of experiences which they can then draw upon throughout their careers.” – Darren
Has there been any help to you in setting this up?
The opportunity for funding via Government Schemes is there now in regard to apprenticeships but there has been some setting up costs. Rhino have offered to help us to communicate what we are doing and support us with materials. We have set up a container on site as our classroom and fully furnished it, providing full toolkits for the apprenticeships. We also employ quality officers which a lot of other contractors do not provide because we recognise that the quality of our work needs to be good. Our aim has always been to be the best brickwork contractor we can be and create a great working environment with a team feel. Now our aim has grown to train and create the best bricklayers in our area for EAB and our industry.” – Darren
What would you say to anyone who may be interested in getting involved?
“I would say drop me a line. I think there are a lot of willing people out there who may not have considered this type of career but want to work hard and gain a qualification – this is a huge opportunity for you. I also really encourage mentors and trainers who are keen to pass on what they know and are genuinely interested in training others to get in touch. The most important piece of this programme is the mentors – the programme doesn’t work without mentors. We are able to employ you on a full time basis or on a self employed basis and we really need your level of expertise. My email address is eastangliabrickworkltd@gmail.com” – Darren
Following an extensive inquiry into aviation, to which the BCC and some Chambers gave evidence, the House of Commons Transport Select Committee has called for Heathrow Airport to be expanded. The Committee rejected calls for a new hub airport east of London and made a number of recommendations that, if acted upon, will form part of a comprehensive aviation strategy, including:
• Improving surface access to the UK’s major airports; • Greater promotion of airports outside the South East; • HM Treasury conducting a fully costed study into the impact of Air Passenger Duty (APD); • Significantly reducing or abolishing APD if the study shows that it has a negative effect.
Commenting, John Longworth, Director General at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Businesses across the UK will certainly be encouraged by the publication of this report. For too long, this issue has been a political plaything, and we are pleased that the need for more aviation capacity in the South East has finally been recognised. Future economic growth depends on a significant increase in airport capacity in order to provide international connectivity for passengers and goods. Greater capacity at UK airports will facilitate international trade, encourage inward investment, attract tourists and ultimately increase employment.
“The Transport Committee makes a number of sensible recommendations, which, if implemented, will significantly help businesses transport their goods and people around the world. The Committee has set out a clear, long-term aviation strategy which addresses the cost, connectivity and capacity concerns of the business community, and will benefit the UK economy as a whole. Now it is time for the government to stop dithering and make this strategy a reality. We know this will require bold decision-making, but the government must recognise the critical role that aviation has to play in supporting economic growth.”
On Friday 7 June there will be a chance to discuss the aviation capacity debate at a local and national level following recent research indicating the lack of capacity at Heathrow was costing the UK up to £14bn a year in lost trade. Hear local businesses’ viewpoints and national perspectives over breakfast. Open to all businesses by invitation. For more information about this event, please contact Hannah Thomson at hannah.thomson@norfolkchamber.co.uk.
Do you know the difference between the types of agent and distributor and their roles? Knowing the differences and where each one may be appropriate is essential for avoiding potential costs of getting it wrong.
This half day course covers the vital area of agency and distribution. It examines the differences, EU legislation, and finding, appointing and motivating you partners and highlights the pitfalls and costs.
Aims
• To have an understanding of the difference between agents and distributors and their roles
• Know what EU laws have to be considered when appointing agents
• Know what to consider when appointing an agent or distributor
• Understand the advantages and disadvantages of each
• Understand the legal implications of appointing agents and distributors
This course also covers: how to find agents or distributors, sources of help, changing an agent or distributor, sample agreements, memorandum of understanding and how to minimise legal costs.
Who Should Attend?
This course is suitable for anyone involved in the export or import process such as; accounts, purchasing / buyers, freight forwarders, shipping, goods inward staff and many more.
Testimonials
“This course has given me a greater understanding on how agents and distributors work and the contracts and stages involved with finding one suitable.”
“A greater understanding and more confidence when dealing with agents and distributors.”
Cancellation Policy
15% of fee payable if delegates cancel more than 7 days in advance. If less than 7 days the full fee is payable.
One of the ‘core 10’ courses accredited by British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). Candidates achieving Pass or Merit in the course will receive a certificate. Those who pass 6 individual courses will achieve a nationally recognised Foundation Award in International Trade.
To book onto this course please send an email with your requirements to export@norfolkchambers.co.uk or call 01603 729707
Caroline Williams, Chief Executive, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce commented: “Norfolk businesses will welcome the limited package of legislation announced in the Queen’s Speech and Ministers are right to focus on measures that can help boost growth, and seem to have gotten the message that when it comes to new legislation, less is more.
Although there was no new Bill for education, the Government’s focus is on improving the quality of education for young people. However, we would like to see more emphasis placed on preparing young people for employment, through comprehensive careers education. A lot of energy is being invested in promoting vocational training. Businesses would be even happier if the Departments for Business and Education could present a joined-up, single system in relation to this type of training.
As part of the Chamber’s theme for ‘unlocking potential of Norfolk’s young people’ we are keen to see the business community and schools interact to ensure tomorrow’s workforce is not only educated, but is aware of the potential career opportunities in this region, such as offshore renewables, advanced technologies and life sciences.”
Also commenting on the Queen’s Speech, John Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said: “The key for business is delivering on the government’s existing commitments, whether on infrastructure, energy, or education and training. Businesses are impatient to see real progress and real benefit emerging on the ground, not just the completion of Westminster and Whitehall processes.”
John Longworth’s comments on other issues arising in the Queen’s Speech can be found below:
On a consumer bill of rights (Draft Consumer Rights Bill): “Consolidating the vast amount of legislation on Trading Standards’ powers into one piece of legislation may benefit consumers. However, any simplification of consumer law must not add new burdens for businesses.”
On deregulation (Deregulation Bill): “Business welcomes the government’s efforts to deregulate, and remove needless red tape that prevents companies of all sizes from growing, innovating, and creating employment. Proposals around employment and health and safety law must be implemented without delay to increase business confidence, and allow firms to focus on growth.”
On pensions (Pensions Bill): “The introduction of a single tier state pension brings much greater clarity for pension savers, as well as parity for the self-employed. The government must ensure there is as much flexibility as possible for firms required to end contracting out, particularly given the decision to implement this reform as early as 2016.”
On high speed rail (High Speed Rail Preparation Bill; Hybrid Bill): “The inclusion of these Bills is a welcome reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to radically transform the capacity of the UK’s congested rail network. Business wants the Preparation Bill to receive cross-party support and a smooth passage through Parliament, leading to a Hybrid Bill in the near future.”
On utilities (Energy and Water Bills): “The government must ensure that the Energy Bill is not subject to any further delays that would hinder the future security of the UK’s energy supply or discourage private sector investment. The lack of competition in the English water market has meant that English businesses have received a poorer service than customers in Scotland. Ensuring genuine competition between water suppliers is good news for businesses in England.”
Commenting on the report by Lord Young – ‘Growing Your Business’ – published today (Monday), Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce said: “Lord Young is right to place emphasis on the growth of smaller firms, who unlike some of the UK’s larger companies, need support and encouragement to help them become the wealth creators of tomorrow. Small and micro businesses will only be able to fulfill their full potential once measures are put in place to help them access the finance, skills and services they need to grow.
“Lord Young has identified a number of these measures in his report and we are pleased to see him address the problem of access to finance which is still hurting the growth potential of many Norfolk firms. But the focus must now be on getting these proposals off the ground so they can actually make a real difference to the business community, and in turn, drive the economic recovery. The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce stands ready to ensure Norfolk businesses are given all the support they need as they embark on their growth journeys over the crucial months ahead.”
Commenting on the Growth Voucher Scheme, Dr Adam Marshall, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The BCC proposed a Growth Voucher scheme in September 2012 to help businesses that want to grow gain access to crucial services and advice. We were pleased that the Chancellor accepted our proposal by announcing the Growth Voucher scheme in the 2013 Budget and committed £30m to the scheme itself.
“Chambers of Commerce around the country look forward to working with the government to bring the scheme to life – and enable businesses to get the specialist assistance they need.”
Commenting on the proposed procurement measures, Adam Marshall said:
“Across the country, small firms tell us that they would be keen to compete for more of the public sector contracts advertised in their local areas. They regularly tell us that it is hard to break into procurement by local councils and other bodies, due to onerous information and application requirements. Lord Young is right to call for better access to local procurement for small firms, and for the abolition of hated Pre-Qualification Questionnaires and other bureaucracy that stop many small companies from competing for council business in the first place.
“Small businesses also report difficulties in pitching new products to the public sector outside formal invitations to tender. This is a wasted opportunity as it would bring private-sector knowhow into securing efficiencies for our public services. We support Lord Young’s call to make this process easier for SMEs.
“However, central government will need to do more than just exhort and encourage local authorities to open up procurement to smaller firms. Indeed it may need to look at ways to sanction councils and agencies that don’t let Britain’s SMEs compete for their business.”
This Managing safely course is designed for managers and supervisors, of any organisation or sector. It’s designed to get managers up to speed on the practical actions they need to take to handle health and safety in their teams and organisations.
The course can be delivered over four days and includes the following…
Introduction to managing safely, assessing risks, controlling risks, understanding your responsibilities, Identifying hazards (including -entrances and exits, work traffic, fire, chemicals, electricity, physical and verbal abuse, bullying, stress, noise, housekeeping and the working environment, slips, trips and falls, working at height, computers and manual handling), investigating accidents and incidents, measuring performance protecting our environment.
This course is being delivered at South Green Park, Mattishall and costs £645 + VAT/per person.
For more information or to book a place, please contact us on 01362 850983 or visit our website atwww.poultec.co.uk
Aim; To refresh delegates on how to put food safety management systems in to place, through detailed understanding of the hazards, legal requirements (including HACCP) and the issues surrounding the implementation of control measures.
Objectives;
*Understand the meaning of ‘management of food safety’, and the elements of a management system, including HACCP.
*Detailed understanding of the four main hazards; biological, allergens, chemical and physical.
*Understand the format of UK and European food safety legislation.
*Understanding operational procedures for cleaning and disinfection, pest control, design and construction of facilities etc.
*Managing people; information, training, supervision etc.
*Maintaining food safety management procedures; monitoring and verification.
*Liaise with enforcement officers
*Have sufficient technical knowledge to deliver level 1 and 2 food hygiene training (with appropriate training skills)
Organisation
Duration; 1 day programme
Exam/Assessment; A series of exercvise-based assessments throughout the day
Cost; £114 plus VAT includes notes, refreshments, lunch, the assessment & certification fees
Awarding Body; None
Tutor; Sarah Daniels
Differentiation; Level 4 in Food Safety is needed.
Audience; This course is for managers, supervisors and QA/QC/ senior hygiene personnel, who devise, implement and monitor/audit food safety systems, and trainers who want to refresh their current knowledge of Level 4 Food Safety
For more information on this course please click here
Commenting on the report by Lord Young – ‘Growing Your Business’ – published today (Monday), Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce said:
“Lord Young is right to place emphasis on the growth of smaller firms, who unlike some of the UK’s larger companies, need support and encouragement to help them become the wealth creators of tomorrow. Small and micro businesses will only be able to fulfill their full potential once measures are put in place to help them access the finance, skills and services they need to grow.
“Lord Young has identified a number of these measures in his report and we are pleased to see him address the problem of access to finance which is still hurting the growth potential of many Norfolk firms. But the focus must now be on getting these proposals off the ground so they can actually make a real difference to the business community, and in turn, drive the economic recovery. The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce stands ready to ensure Norfolk businesses are given all the support they need as they embark on their growth journeys over the crucial months ahead.”
Commenting on the Growth Voucher Scheme, Dr Adam Marshall, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The BCC proposed a Growth Voucher scheme in September 2012 to help businesses that want to grow gain access to crucial services and advice. We were pleased that the Chancellor accepted our proposal by announcing the Growth Voucher scheme in the 2013 Budget and committed £30m to the scheme itself.
“Chambers of Commerce around the country look forward to working with the government to bring the scheme to life – and enable businesses to get the specialist assistance they need.”
Commenting on the proposed procurement measures, Adam Marshall said:
“Across the country, small firms tell us that they would be keen to compete for more of the public sector contracts advertised in their local areas. They regularly tell us that it is hard to break into procurement by local councils and other bodies, due to onerous information and application requirements. Lord Young is right to call for better access to local procurement for small firms, and for the abolition of hated Pre-Qualification Questionnaires and other bureaucracy that stop many small companies from competing for council business in the first place.
“Small businesses also report difficulties in pitching new products to the public sector outside formal invitations to tender. This is a wasted opportunity as it would bring private-sector knowhow into securing efficiencies for our public services. We support Lord Young’s call to make this process easier for SMEs.
“However, central government will need to do more than just exhort and encourage local authorities to open up procurement to smaller firms. Indeed it may need to look at ways to sanction councils and agencies that don’t let Britain’s SMEs compete for their business.”