The British Retail Consortium yesterday gave its thoughts on the new Parliamentary objectives laid out in the Queen’s Speech.
Although Brexit and the prospect of a General Election overshadows genuine prospects of the next session being seen through, the BRC was keen to promote the needs of retailers in any impending Brexit.
Responding to the Queen’s Speech, Helen Dickinson OBE, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: “The Queen’s speech, and the new Parliamentary session it begins, is an opportunity for the Government to reinvigorate its domestic agenda. Once we have ensured that the UK avoids a No Deal Brexit, the Government should implement policies that support businesses and create conditions for investment in skills and productivity growth.”
Tackling a number of issues, she said:
On Brexit: “The Government has acknowledged the crucial need for a transition period that would give businesses time to prepare for life outside of the EU. However, this will require the swift negotiation of a Brexit deal to avoid a No Deal scenario that would result in higher prices and less availability on the shelves.”
On Immigration: “It is essential that any future immigration system works for retail. The operation of warehouses, food factories and city centre stores benefit from the vital contribution EU migrant workers make. We need a system that enables swift and straight-forward recruitment across all skill levels without significantly increasing the costs of employment.”
On Crime: “The Government has shown a clear commitment to tackling crime. Every day 115 retail workers are attacked in the workplace and we urge the Government to reduce this by taking action to ensure those who perpetrate these crimes are punished appropriately. We urge Ministers to take this opportunity to introduce a bill to provide stronger protections for retail workers.”
On Sustainability: “We welcome the Government’s commitment to sustainability, and support efforts towards a circular, zero-waste economy in the UK. We were particularly encouraged by measures to improve the consistency of recycling schemes in England, however, it is essential that such measures are rolled out across the whole of the UK. This way consumers know which packaging can be recycled whether they’re in Lands’ End or John o’ Groats.
“Retailers have been leading the charge to reduce unnecessary plastic in their stores, and to boost recycling rates through clear on-pack recycling labels. Retailers know they have a responsibility to contribute more directly towards the costs of recycling and recovering packaging through a reformed Extended Producer Responsibility scheme. Once these changes are in place, the Government should assess how a DRS can be used to plug any remaining gaps without disrupting the ability of consumers to recycle in the home.”
Skills: “We welcome the proposed additional investment for T-levels and life-long training. However, we urge the Government to recognise the need for greater flexibility in the operation of the Apprenticeship Levy”
Business Rates: “We are surprised and disappointed that the Government didn’t take this opportunity to bring back the Non-Domestic Rating (Lists) Bill that will help business’ rates bills more accurately reflect the rents they pay. This in turn would help relieve struggling high streets and safeguard jobs and communities. Time is pressing for Government to meet its promise to revalue business rates by 2021 and we hope to see this put right in the upcoming Budget.”
