Commenting on the Home Affairs Committee’s report on immigration policy, published today, Jane Gratton, Head of Business Environment and Skills at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:

“The BCC has long campaigned for an immigration policy that supports business and the economy, so we welcome the Home Affairs Committee raising these issues.

“With unemployment at an all-time low, job vacancies remaining unfilled and businesses facing pervasive skills shortages, it makes no sense to cut-off an important supply of skills and labour. Businesses are not deliberately targeting non-UK workers, nor are they failing to train the UK workforce, but over half of firms we surveyed told us they would be affected in some way should there be any future restrictions on the rights of EEA nationals to work in the UK.

“Foreign students are crucial to the success of universities and surrounding business communities, but the majority do not stay in the UK once their studies are finished so including them in the immigration statistics is misguided.

“The UK should be striving to attract the brightest talent from around the world, so it’s crucial that our immigration policy reflects this.”

The British Chambers of Commerce is happy to announce an early-bird offer on tickets to this year’s Annual Conference, and a special Virgin Train deal for members of Accredited Chambers of Commerce.

An early-bird discount for tickets to the BCC’s Annual Conference 2018 is available, the reduced price of £119+ VAT will be on offer until midnight on 26th January.

The theme for this year’s Conference will be the future of UK business – including the Future of Work, the Future of UK Trade, and Diversity in Business. The event also falls on International Women’s Day, and this will form a theme throughout the day. The day will include panel debates and inspiring keynote speeches from senior politicians, business leaders and opinion formers.

The BCC is also pleased to announce that members of Accredited Chambers of Commerce can take advantage of a discount when travelling to the conference. Virgin Trains is offering 20% off first anytime single and return tickets along the East Coast route, by signing up to Railblazers. For information on utilising the promo code, please contact your local Chamber.

Faye Busby, Director Business Development at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The BCC Annual Conference is a fantastic opportunity to bring the diverse and dynamic membership of the Chamber Network together. We’re delighted to be able to offer Chamber businesses a discount on their tickets and transport to the event, and hope to see as many members as possible on the day.”