Recent calls from UK businesses highlight the ongoing problem of the skills shortage here in the UK. Some larger, well known companies have tried to tackle the problem which they say is preventing economic growth. Google and Microsoft attempted to put the problems back on the agenda by calling for greater education in technology, but the problem remains at the same level with no sign of improvement.

According to research by the British Chambers of Commerce, a number of businesses are looking towards expansion, but the shortage of appropriate skills is preventing it. As a result of the skills shortage, companies with more than 50 employees are being forced to put plans for expansion and growth on hold, as the required skills are not available. The British Chambers of Commerce has called for more to be done by the government to alleviate the problem. A number of companies have tried to source relevant skills overseas but regulation can make it difficult.

The director general of the BCC, John Longworth believes that the larger companies in the UK could be the future multinationals if they had the right tools for growth, including an adequate supply of skilled workers. He said:

“Many firms are unable to find the skilled workers they need in the UK, and lack confidence in the ability of the education system to deliver the right people for the job.”

The government has been called upon to act, especially as unemployment is at an all time high and growth is needed to stimulate the UK economy.

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