The director general of the British Chambers of Commerce has warned against harsh immigration policies, which will lead to labour shortages.
Adam Marshall has urged Theresa May for detailed post-Brexit plans, whilst voicing his concerns of a recruitment crisis in UK companies.
“The simple fact is that many businesses can’t afford to wait much longer for a clear UK immigration policy to emerge,” he wrote in a Guardian article.
“This makes it all the more troubling that the planned immigration white paper, meant to cover the short to medium term, is now delayed. As the prime minister herself has repeatedly noted, workers of all skill levels from Europe play a huge role in the success of British businesses and communities.
“Now it is up to the cabinet as a whole – including Theresa May – to send a clear and swift signal that businesses can access the people and skills needed to remain competitive in a global market,” he added.
Difficulty in recruitment has been highlighted by BCC surveys, which shows three-quarters of UK firms who are trying to recruit experiencing difficulties.
While there has not been a release of detailed immigration policies, the Home Office said plans they are on track for a “digital, streamlined and user-friendly” system.
A source has said that business needs will remain a key priority under any new system.
Marshall went on to stress the timeline that the government had to prepare for Brexit.
“If ministers wish to avoid the sight of unfinished urban buildings, fruit rotting on Herefordshire trees, care homes and hotels shutting their doors from Bournemouth to Inverness, or manufacturers investing in their overseas operations instead of here at home, the time to act is now,” he said.