Members of the South East Business Forum (SEBUS), the influential group that brings together the region’s leading employer organisations, discussed with Mr Denham the major issues affecting competitiveness and heard about government plans to enhance support for regional companies.
Speaking as the current chair of SEBUS, EEF South Chief Executive David Seall said that innovation and skills were key concerns for the group.
“John Denham has a good understanding of the challenges facing the South East but this meeting provided an excellent opportunity to focus on specific issues impacting on the competitive position of regional businesses – and skills shortages are top the agenda for many companies,” he said.
“There is a skills gap that is acting as a real barrier to business growth – indeed many companies are now actively recruiting from overseas simply because we do not possess the ‘home grown’ talent. We also stressed to the Secretary of State the need for a joined up approach to regulation so that good employers feel a lighter touch from government. In all, it was a very constructive meeting.”
SEBUS membership includes EEF South, CBI, SE Chambers of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, Institute of Directors and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. Individually, the members already enjoy productive relationships with bodies such as the Regional Development Agency (SEEDA), the Regional Assembly (SEERA) and the Government Office for the South East (GOSE), but together they provide a clear focal point for interaction with the business community on issues of economic development.
Our picture shows John Denham (front, centre right) pictured alongside David Seall, Chief Executive of EEF South, together with members of SEBUS.