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Cridland: 46% of firms are dissatisfied with the Government's track record on public sector reform Business chiefs have called on the prime minister, Gordon Brown, to reform public services in order to keep the British economy on track. CBI deputy director-general, John Cridland, said Mr Brown ‘must show his mettle', after the group published a survey which revealed that 46% of firms were dissatisfied with the Government's track record on public sector reform. The CBI's public services survey also revealed 47% were unhappy with the record of councils improving education, and 44% were dissatisfied about their ability to develop local transport. But 48% said they were satisfied with council records on improving the environment, and 47% gave the thumbs-up regarding recreational facilities. ‘After years of generous spending on public services with disappointing results, the Government needs to make sure that every pound of taxpayers' money is spent effectively,' said Mr Cridland. ‘As hard-working families throughout the country come under pressure to make ends meet, the Government must show it can keep its own house in order.' ‘Reform of our public services is not a luxury to be dabbled with in times of plenty, but quietly forgotten when money is tight,' he continued. ‘It is time for prudence to become an everyday reality in our public services, and not just a buzz-word. ‘Further tax rises to pay for more government spending are out of the question in these uncertain economic times, and so the imperative is clear – wider and deeper reforms must be driven through. ‘While recent proposals to shake up the welfare system and extend GP hours are small steps in the right direction, the prime minister will need to make far greater strides, if the impression is not to be given that it is all too little, too late,' he said.

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BUSINESS

Business chiefs urge PM to 'show mettle'

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