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- Nick Elvin
In the wake of last week’s Scottish referendum, businesses and professional organisations have been giving their reaction to the historic ‘no’ vote.
The rejection of independence by voters is good news for staffing firms and contractors across the UK, according to Parasol and ClearSky parent group Optionis.
“I think staffing industry professionals, contractors and freelancers will breathe a collective sigh of relief,” said managing director Derek Kelly, who felt the electorate had voted “rationally”.
“There were many questions around tax, regulation and trade that the SNP and pro-independence lobby failed to answer. Had the people of Scotland voted for independence, we would have today been bracing ourselves for years of uncertainty as politicians thrashed out a ‘divorce’ settlement.
“Prior to the poll, there were suggestions in some quarters that a ‘yes’ vote would boost demand for IT contractors due to the creation of new government bodies and systems north of the border.
“However, in my view any short-term boost would have been far outweighed by the long-term damage to Scotland’s economy and key industries, such as financial services and North Sea oil and gas.”
John Cridland, director-general of the CBI, also said the result would be greeted with relief across the business community.
“Business has always believed that the Union is best for creating jobs, raising growth and improving living standards, and welcomes that the people of Scotland want to play an integral role in this internationally successful partnership,” he added.
“As the debate now moves to the question of further devolution, it is important that it does not undermine the strength of the single internal market and it is in the best interests of citizens living in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as those in Scotland.”
Mr Cridland said politicians, businesses and citizens now had to unite to achieve a better future for all in the UK.
“Now is also the time to rebuild relationships outside the UK to reassure international investors and other partners that we will emerge stronger and more confident in the months and years ahead,” he said.
According to Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) chief executive Kevin Green, labour market issues must be at the forefront in devolution discussions.
“The referendum has unearthed a series of questions about greater levels of devolution and this will undoubtedly herald significant changes for Scotland and the rest of the UK,” he said.
“In all discussions about further devolution, policy-makers must keep in mind that workers move across borders and businesses need to take talent with them, wherever they are operating.
“The UK jobs market gathers its strength from the close collaboration between the different regions and nations of the UK and this should remain at the forefront in all deliberations.”
Simon McVicker, director of policy and external affairs at IPSE, The Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed, said the organisation would embark in dialogue with both governments to enhance the interests of those it supports.
“Representing those who choose to go it alone in business means we understand more than most why it is so important to people that they have control of their own destiny,” Mr McVicker added. “We also understand the value of working with others and the importance strong ties with key partners are to prosperity and success.
“Policy makers in Holyrood and Westminster should take this opportunity to build a better environment for the growing number of self-employed people working across the UK. Their importance to the economy has never been greater than it is today.”
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