CBI president’s praise for firms defying hard times

Sir Roger Carr called on ministers to help the economy by making taxation more competitive, cutting red tape and providing clarity on energy policy to help create jobs.

The chairman of Centrica was in the region to visit businesses in Hull and address the annual CBI dinner at Leeds University.

Siemens announced yesterday that it may wait until next year before confirming plans for a wind turbine factory in the city.

Sir Roger said: “Clarity is important for Siemens and that in itself will be very important to the ports because they have already invested in the hope that will come good as a major project and increase employment and opportunity for the local community.

“We will be very supportive of that in encouraging Government to reach a positive conclusion on energy.”

Sir Roger said changing government policy has presented challenges for the regions, adding that ministers now recognise that “picking winners is not the answer but supporting areas of strength and encouraging sectors that can be world beaters is the way forward”.

He also said that business leaders have to be responsible in their actions and warned that the public are becoming more concerned about business ethics.

There is a constant need, he said, “to recognise that the public now are concerned not only about how much money businesses make but how they make money”. He called for high standards of governance, pay and conduct.

In an interview, Sir Roger told the Yorkshire Post: “There’s no doubt that business conditions are very challenging. There’s equally no doubt that British business is handling it pretty well.

“It’s obviously got the benefits of a competitive currency for exports, low interest rates at home and we have had some policy decisions by Government which have been helpful to the business community.

“The speed of execution has been less than it might have been. We’re encouraging Government all the time to accelerate pace, but I think the direction of travel is good. I have seen some excellent examples of strong businesses performing well in challenging times.”

He visited Hull College and saw its close work with the business community to tailor its curriculum according to business needs. He also saw Cranswick, the premium pork products firm.