Government’s Get Britain Working White Paper a ‘start’, but more needs to be done

The government has released its Get Britain Working White Paper and while it’s been very much welcomed, SMEs believe it’s ‘only a start’.

The White Paper gives a rundown of the government’s proposals to reform employment, health and skills support to ‘tackle economic inactivity, support people into good work and create an inclusive labour market in which everybody can participate and progress in work’.

Responding to the Government’s Get Britain Working White Paper, Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), Tina McKenzie, said, “This is a start – but only a start – in fixing the pervasive poverty of ambition in the Jobcentre, health and other state systems when it comes to getting people back into work. Increasing employment is ultimately the most sure-fire way to drive up living standards and economic growth.

“Ministers have a huge job to persuade public institutions that work is good for health and that everyone who needs work should be helped to get a job or start-up in self-employment – not least getting rid of the idea that the only good work is in graduate jobs, the public sector or volunteering.

“The ambition behind the 80 per cent employment target is both clear and important.”

Tina added, “The last Labour government devised the Future Jobs Fund; under the coalition there was the Youth Contract wage incentive; and then in the pandemic era the Kickstart scheme.

“Now we need to know what this Government’s version of these will look like, how they will tackle health-related inactivity across all ages, and how they will support those entering work through self-employment.

“Whether it’s creating the next generation of driving instructors, office workers, or helping solve crucial skills gaps in construction or manufacturing, getting people into work is not just crucial for individuals, but vital for long-term economic growth.

“It is – and always has been – the UK’s small businesses who do the lion’s share in terms of getting people into work in the private sector.

“To deliver on this policy agenda, Government and small businesses must work in partnership to drive real change through the whole employment system and make sure the country is helping those who most need work.”

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