Business | Posted on July 21st, 2026 | return to news

Dorset Chamber issues advice for Andy Burnham

As well as stability, the chamber would like to see Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Somerset and Wiltshire become a combined authority.

Dorset Chamber is calling for stability following Andy Burnham becoming the new Prime Minister.
Chief Executive Ian Girling said: “The Government has a fresh opportunity to reset its economic direction and restore business confidence.

“Over the past decade, the UK has seen huge political turnover, with seven Prime Ministers in just 10 years.

“That level of change creates uncertainty and instability, making it difficult for businesses to plan, invest and grow with any sense of certainty.

“Businesses thrive on stability. They need confidence that the economic environment will support investment, encourage recruitment and provide a pathway for growth.

“Instead, many employers have faced rising costs through measures such as increased National Insurance contributions and increasing employment challenges with changes to employment legislation.

“Now is the time for a clear, credible and long-term economic plan for recovery.

“Bringing inflation firmly under control remains essential, not only for households but also for businesses managing costs, cash flow and investment decisions.

“Alongside this, we need policies that genuinely support enterprise — encouraging innovation, productivity and growth rather than placing additional burdens on those creating jobs and wealth.
“We also know that devolution is high on Andy Burnham’s agenda.

“For Dorset, this means bringing Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Somerset and Wiltshire together as a combined authority.

“This presents opportunity for the area, but it will be absolutely vital the voice of business is strong within this and we will be working with our fellow chambers in these areas to push on this.

“Businesses across Dorset are resilient and ambitious but they cannot do it alone. They need a government that understands the vital role they play in driving economic prosperity and is prepared to work in partnership with the business community.

“At Dorset Chamber, we will continue to champion the interests of our members, ensuring the voice of Dorset business is heard loudly and clearly.

“We look forward to engaging constructively with the new Government through the British Chambers of Commerce and will continue to lobby for policies that create the conditions in which businesses can invest, grow and succeed for the benefit of our local economy and the wider UK.”