David Ralph, Chief Executive of D2N2 LEP
Commenting on today’s Autumn Statement, David Ralph, Chief Executive of D2N2 – the Local Enterprise Partnership for Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire – said: “The signs are encouraging with Britain’s economy growing faster than any other major advanced economy but there is much work to do, it has to be one step at a time and don’t get carried away.
“We have to focus on business growth and our key strengths in manufacturing and exporting rather than relying on consumer debt when it comes to sustaining a responsible recovery.
“That means in particular we need to support businesses, especially SMEs, to grow. Business is the key to this country’s recovery.
“Capping the inflation of business rates and for some small firms, no rates at all, is positive and certainly a step in the right direction in helping firms grow, as is help for the high streets and an increase in the export finance capacity available to support businesses.
“Also, connectivity is crucial to D2N2 so delivering the investments in the National Infrastructure Plan is very important.
“Confirmation that there will be no tolling on the planned A14 scheme between Cambridge and Huntingdon, construction of which is planned to start in 2016, is positive news and we would urge the earliest possible delivery. This will help maintain the East Midlands’ connectivity to international markets.
“But overall, the economy is recovering and that is most welcome news. But let’s not get carried away. Here at D2N2 we appreciate there is a lot of hard work to do and business growth has to be at the centre of a responsible and sustainable recovery.”
