Here's a clear path to sustainable economic growth: stable rules, simpler taxes, and targeted investment. It shows how government policy can unlock business growth. It's optimistic, practical, and focused on outcomes ...
Sustainable economic growth, A balance of nature and wealth, A government's gift
We all know that a thriving economy needs confidence, and confidence grows when businesses can plan for sustainable economic growth without second-guessing tomorrow's rules. Firms aren't asking for special treatment; we're asking for clarity, continuity and a system that rewards ambition rather than complexity.
Here are my ideas for how the government could unlock sustainable growth:
Government policies that change less often are more valuable than incentives that change every year. Multi‑year tax roadmaps, published and stuck to, would help finance directors invest rather than hedge, and would make business growth less about guesswork and more about execution.
A simpler VAT regime could remove friction where it is most damaging. Smoothing the VAT threshold, streamlining exemptions, and reducing the scope for disputes would free time and cash for innovation. Meanwhile, HMRC service standards that meet digital-era expectations would prevent progress from being lost to hold music and contradictory guidance.
A smarter business rates system would stop penalising investment in plant, property upgrades and green tech. Aligning rates with productivity goals, rather than square footage alone, would support an economic strategy that rewards capital deepening and accelerates diffusion of modern equipment across regions and sectors.
A predictable corporation tax base, with fewer reliefs, but better ones, would reduce deadweight cost. Making full expensing permanent, clarifying the R&D regime, and protecting loss reliefs would anchor investment here in the UK. The outcome is not just higher returns; it is faster project approval and fewer abandoned plans.
A national infrastructure programme focused on delivery would turn intent into outcomes. Targeted public investment in grid capacity, transport links, and digital infrastructure - paired with faster planning decisions - would bring in private capital and lower the cost of doing business, particularly for energy-intensive firms and scale-ups outside the South East.
A modern skills programme would close the execution gap. Flexible training accounts, portable across employers, and an easier route for high-demand international talent would align education with economic strategy, allowing sectors from advanced manufacturing to life sciences to scale without delay.
A credible net-zero pathway would de-risk boardroom decisions. Consistent carbon pricing, long-term support for industrial decarbonisation, and bankable contracts for clean power would provide the certainty investors need while lowering bills over time. Clear signals reduce volatility risk and make financing cheaper.
A smarter state can also buy better. Using procurement to reward productivity, interoperability and resilience - rather than simply box‑ticking - would help scale UK innovators and strengthen supply chains. Transparent pipelines, faster payments, and outcome-based contracts would turn public demand into private momentum.
A renewed export offer would help firms step out confidently. Streamlined trade support, mutual recognition efforts, and practical guidance on geopolitics and cyber risk would lower barriers and widen markets, converting capability into contracts and reinforcing business growth at home.
A stronger centre and empowered regions can co-exist. Devolving investment powers with clear accountability, while keeping national standards simple, would let local leaders back what works in their area and speed delivery without multiplying complexity.
I foresee that what emerges from all these ideas is stable rules, simpler taxes, efficient administration, focused public investment and reliable delivery, all pointing in one direction. With these choices, the UK can unlock productivity, rebuild confidence and turn ambition into sustainable economic growth.
And that compounds beyond the lifetime of the current government. But would they ever implement something of this scale? Governments of every colour only seem to be interested in headline announcements that keep them in power beyond the next election.
What we actually need are politicians with long-term vision.
If anything I've written in my blog post resonates with you and you'd like to discover more of my thoughts about government can enable growth, then do call me on 01908 774320 and let's see how I can help you.
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Roger trained at Edward Thomas Peirson & Sons in Market Harborough before working at Hartwell & Co, followed by Chancery, as a partner. He started Essendon Accounts and Tax with Helen Beaumont in 2014 as a general practitioner with a hands-on approach.
Roger loves getting his hands dirty, working with emerging, small-to-medium and family businesses to ensure they receive the best possible accountancy advice. Roger utilises an extensive network of business contacts to leverage the best guidance and practical solutions.
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