With an election looming, business leaders across the UK will have paid close attention to recent comments in the media regarding alignment with EU standards and regulations.
In the wake of the UK’s departure from the EU and recent attempts to force divergence unilaterally in the UK, many businesses, business leaders and business organisations would welcome a policy of alignment with EU standards and regulations, unless it is explicitly not in the UK’s interests to do so.
Such a policy of “beneficial alignment”, as proposed by the UK Trade and Business Commission, would enable businesses and investors to have confidence in the UK’s regulatory foundations, while still allowing the UK to maintain its own regulatory autonomy.
By taking this approach, any future UK government will be able to reassure businesses and investors, both domestically and internationally, that the UK is committed to maintaining high standards and protections, and strong relationships with its trading partners, while also protecting the interests of UK businesses.
Paul Drechsler Chair, International Chamber of Commerce
Peter Norris Co-convener, UK Trade and Business Commission, and chair, Virgin Group
Naomi Pohl General secretary, Musicians’ Union
Emma Degg Chief executive, North West Business Leadership Team
Juergen Maier Vice-chair, Northern Powerhouse Partnership, and former CEO, Siemens UK
