HTA says “longer term support” is needed by government

by | Nov 17, 2022 | News | 0 comments

The Horticultural Trades Association says the industry needs “longer-term support” with a recession likely, following the Autumn Statement issued today by chancellor Jeremy Hunt.

Jennifer Pheasey, director of public affairs at the HTA, says: “We welcome the Chancellor’s commitment to supporting business over the next five years, and measures on Business Rates and employer NICs, which will soften the blow for some of our members, but we need a guarantee of longer-term support to offset the impact of the recession.

“While the Energy Price Guarantee for the next year is also needed, this scheme will not give confidence to businesses in our sector based on the current impact of rising energy costs on their everyday business operations.

“The Chancellor noted stability and growth as two priorities for the Government. The horticulture sector needs stability to allow for growth and investment in jobs, which can’t be done without the right policies and support. Environmental Horticulture has the potential to significantly contribute towards achieving economic, climate change and health ambitions for green industries and the levelling-up strategy – both were key references in today’s Autumn Budget speech.

“Employment figures in the UK are yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. As HTA represents 1,500 members in a sector which supports nearly 700,000 employees and contributes almost £28bn to UK GDP, it is well placed to contribute to green growth ambitions.

“The impact of seasonal labour shortages will be critical for our industry ahead of the growing season, and greater flexibility will be needed on the Apprenticeship Levy scheme and access would be supported to enable the sector to nurture a highly skilled workforce.

“We will continue to work closely with our members over the coming weeks and months to assess the impact of today’s statement.”

more latest news ➡

Winners of the PetQuip 2023 Awards announced

PetQuip Awards 2023 winners announced

Last night’s PetQuip Awards hosted a record number of guests as the pet industry convened to recognise excellence and celebrate achievement. Held alongside and in association with PATS Telford, the PetQuip Awards cover Supplier, Retailer, Product, Export and...

Laylocks expansion underway

Expansion work at Laylocks Garden Centre is underway

Work is underway at the expansion at Laylocks Garden Centre in Cotheridge near Worcester. The aim is to open the new development in March 2024.  Hannah Warr, a director at the centre, said: "We are excited. Everyone has been telling us they are excited by the new...

12,000 lost apprenticeship positions in retail

12,000 lost apprenticeship places in retail

Retailers could have offered 12,000 more apprenticeships over the past year if it was not for the Government’s failure to reform the Apprenticeship Levy, according to a survey by the British Retail Consortium (BRC). The industry took on approximately 17,000...

GIMA awards 2023

Just four weeks until the GIMA Awards 2023

The garden retail sector is abuzz as the GIMA Awards are set to return in just four weeks!  Taking place at the Celtic Manor resort in Newport, South Wales, the event will once again be a hotbed of celebration and networking, with 17 coveted awards up for grabs. ...

Read GCR's latest edition!

Subscribe ToThe Wednesday Word

Subscribe To
The Wednesday Word

 

Get all the latest news, events & more straight to your inbox every Wednesday.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This