Steve Morley, president of the Confederation of British Metalforming, accused the B5 of being "far too cosy" with government officials and "naive" in their advocacy. "Given their direct access to Whitehall, their failure to deliver for businesses leaves them looking hoodwinked at best," he said.
Morley warned the "additional burden" on SMEs could stifle optimism around Labour's proposed industrial strategy. The budget has been widely criticised for undermining employment and investment plans, especially in manufacturing sectors already struggling with challenges such as falling electric vehicle sales and emissions targets.
Rupert Soames, chairman of the CBI, recently described the government's treatment of businesses as akin to viewing them as "a cow to be milked." This analogy emphasizes the growing frustration among business leaders regarding the government's approach to supporting industry.
Roger Barker, director of policy at the Institute of Directors, defended his organisation's efforts, saying it had been "deeply critical" of the budget's impact on businesses. However, many still question the overall effectiveness of the B5 in representing their interests.
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