Prime Minister Theresa May, whose plans were set out in the Queen's Speech to parliament, has abandoned much of the domestic agenda she set out in the Conservative manifesto after the party failed to win an overall majority in the general election earlier in June.

Bills to tackle Brexit complexities

Instead, eight bills were outlined in the speech to tackle the complexities of Brexit, including a Repeal Bill to negate the 1972 Act which took Britain into the European Economic Community and which will ensure the continuation of existing laws and regulations once the divorce from the EU is complete.There was also legislative proposals covering customs, trade, immigration, fisheries, agriculture, nuclear safeguards and the international sanctions regime.On immigration, the government is adhering to its undertaking to end the uncontrolled movement of EU citizens but insists businesses will still be able to access the “the brightest and the best” from around the world. No details of a new system have been put forward, however.

Bills to advance infrastructure and technology

Bills were also outlined to extend the HS2 high-speed rail link to Crewe, permit the development of driverless cars, spaceports and commercial satellites, cut whiplash insurance claims, protect victims of domestic abuse and ban letting fees for private rented homes.Plans were also unveiled for a civil disaster taskforce in the wake of recent terror attacks and the fire at a London tower block that killed at least 79 people.There will be a vote on the programme next week and Mrs May is hoping for the backing of MPs from Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionists to achieve a parliamentary majority.

Action on Industrial Strategy, skills and infrastructure

Commenting on the proposals, Carolyn Fairbairn, director-general of the Confederation of British Industry, said, “It’s good to see that the recent heatwave has warmed the government’s view of business and its contribution to people’s lives. But this welcome change in tone needs to be backed by clarity and action now. Firms will expect all politicians to put pragmatism before politics, starting with Brexit.“Fast action on Industrial Strategy, skills and infrastructure will show that the UK is a great place to do business.  But now it’s all about pace.”

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Related news:

• CBI sees ‘steady but subdued growth for UK economy’
• Brexit talks begin as UK aims for 'historic' deal
• Business groups set out priorities on Brexit

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Dr Adam Marshall, director-general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said, “While Brexit isn’t the top immediate priority for many businesses, firms of every size and shape want to avoid turbulence and confusion during the Brexit transition.“The government’s proposed bills on trade, customs and immigration must minimise adjustment costs and maximise opportunities. Achieving this will require continuous and constructive engagement with business communities across the UK.“Importantly, many of the real, practical priorities for businesses across the UK can be delivered without new primary legislation. Ministers must inject real momentum and pace into the major infrastructure schemes that have already been agreed and announced.“They must cut back on the stifling up-front costs that deter investment and risk-taking, and press ahead with an Industrial Strategy that helps places across the UK achieve their potential. This is an important moment for ministers to show that they are doing their day job, and delivering a stronger environment for growth here at home.“Businesses want to see a workable government going about its day job, and clear signals that the economy is once again front and centre in political life. Consensus and a strong partnership between government and business will be critical at a time of significant change.”For related news and features, visit our Brexit section.Access hundreds of global services and suppliers in our Online Directory  Get access to our free Global Mobility Toolkit

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