Reacting to today’s cabinet reshuffle, James Watkins, head of policy and public impact at the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said:
“We welcome James Cleverly as the new Home Secretary. James knows the capital from his time as a senior member of the London Assembly. We will urge the new Home Secretary to reform visa policies so that London’s arts scene can welcome musicians from around the world and enable business people interested in investing in the country to visit London. We will also push for changes to curb economic crime across the capital. Our survey found that 20% of London SMEs affected by crime lost up to £10,000. At the same time, 19% of large businesses in London affected by crime suffered financial losses of up to £50,000.”
“The appointment of David Cameron as Foreign Secretary is an opportunity for a fresh look at the government’s Ukraine policy. Britain is a world leader in supporting Ukraine. London Chamber is working with Liverpool Chamber and other businesses so we can support SMEs continuing to operate in Ukraine. Strong SMEs are vital to Ukraine’s defense and its future and we will discuss with the new Foreign Minister what more can be achieved to support this country by supporting small businesses in Ukraine.”
