With all three major political parties issuing business manifestos within the next fortnight RICS has set out what UK business is looking for from the next government.
* A properly prioritised and funded National Infrastructure Plan. The stop/start policies surrounding so many infrastructure projects such as Crossrail are unacceptable - uncertainty is a disincentive to business planning.
* Overhaul the PFI process. Provide a standard form of PFI
cost report (enabling stakeholders to be clearer about risk) and greater reimbursement of bidding costs to tap the whole market of ideas and skills.
* Promote the supply of affordable business premises in town
and city centres. Provide business environment that enables companies to choose sustainable options. Avoid the route to íblandsvilleí by joining up policies to create more dynamic business environments
* Cut red tape. There is an ever widening gap between
political rhetoric about cutting red tape and the reality on the ground. The consistent policy of ígold-platingí EU legislation when it is translated into UK law must be changed
* Introduce Real Estate Investment Trusts to enable investors
such as pension funds to create more balanced portfolios.
* Combat skills shortages. Industries such as construction find it increasingly difficult to recruit skilled workers. A greater emphasis on both professional and vocational training is needed.
* Ensure congestion charging and other traffic reduction policies take better account of the impact on business, particularly small businesses.
RICS sets out what UK business is looking for from the next government
.
