Chemical and pharmaceutical businesses across the UK are demanding Government action to maintain and enhance business investment. In a detailed submission to the Chancellor of the Exchequer ahead of the Government's Pre-budget Report to Parliament due on 9 December, the sector has called for action on credit insurance, a reform and simplification of the tax regime and skills.

Steve Elliott, Chief Executive of the Chemical Industries Association, said "it is vital that the Government honours its pledge to foster a renaissance in manufacturing by delivering on key requirements on 9 December.  We are calling for a thorough overhaul and simplification of the tax system and measures to ensure we can train and recruit the scientists that give the UK its reputation as a centre of excellence for research and development".