News

03 February 2009

Action for Business

Greater Manchester Chamber has launched an action plan for tackling the economic downturn.

The plan calls for a further cut in interest rates, measures to encourage bank lending to business and reforms to VAT. It also highlights the need to tackle issues such as energy pricing and training and asks for a freeze on further business regulation during the current downturn.

Peter Heginbotham OBE, President of Greater Manchester Chamber, said:

"These are challenging times for our members that require practical support from membership organisations like Greater Manchester Chamber. Our Action for Business document outlines the work we are doing to lobby the Government for real measures to help business. But as well as providing our firms with a much needed voice we are also highlighting the practical advice and support we are offering to local businesses to help them through this time."

Action For Business also highlights the practical steps the Chamber, in partnership with the Manchester Solutions Group, is offering its members and other businesses to help them weather the economic storm. These include access to advice and support, access to finance and training services to help firms improve productivity and seek out new business opportunities.

Richard Guy, Group Chief Executive of Manchester Solutions, added:

"Now more than ever business needs our help. No-one can stand by and do nothing, and we certainly are pulling out all the stops to help in practical ways. While the Pre-Budget Report may go some way to providing much needed help to local firms we are keen to make sure that this continues and that we keep providing much-needed support to local businesses every step of the way."