business depends on a functioning economy, good infrastructure and a skilled workforce.”
“ But there has to be a balance. Businesses are already contributing substantial amounts through corporation tax, employers’ National Insurance, business rates and the many other costs associated with employing people and running a company.”
“ At some point, the Chancellor needs to consider how much more can reasonably be expected from the businesses creating the wealth that funds those services.”
Manufacturing investment depends on confidence
For Rowan Precision, which specialises in precision CNC machining, sliding head CNC machining and complex multi-axis manufacturing, investment in equipment, technology and workforce development remains central to its long-term business strategy.
The company operates in demanding engineering markets, including aerospace and medical manufacturing, where technical capability, quality standards and consistent investment are essential to maintaining competitiveness.
Aston argues that manufacturers need greater confidence in the long-term tax environment to justify further expenditure on machinery, facilities and employment.
“ Manufacturing is an industry where you make substantial financial commitments well before you see the return,” he explained.
“ When we invest in CNC machinery, train an apprentice or recruit another skilled engineer, we are making a commitment to the future of the business. Those decisions support our customers, strengthen our capabilities and create opportunities for people to build rewarding careers in engineering.”
Aston believes government policy should encourage businesses to make those decisions with confidence. A competitive tax environment, manageable employment costs and meaningful incentives for capital investment would be a very welcome starting point.
The importance of maintaining Britain’ s manufacturing capacity has become increasingly apparent as aerospace, defence and medical technology businesses assess their domestic supply chains and future production requirements.
For specialist manufacturers such as Rowan Precision, the opportunity to secure additional work depends on having the equipment, people and financial capacity to respond.
Employment costs remain a concern
Aston also believes the government should pay particular attention to the cost of employing people, especially as engineering companies compete to attract experienced machinists and develop the next generation of manufacturing talent.
Rowan Precision has consistently supported apprenticeships, engineering training and opportunities for young people entering the industry. However, the financial commitments associated with expanding a workforce extend considerably beyond salaries.
“ Every new employee represents an investment in the business, and we want to see more people entering manufacturing,” Aston continued.
“ We need talented young engineers, experienced machinists and people who want to build their careers in an industry that has an enormous amount to offer.”
“ The Chancellor should be making it easier for businesses to recruit, train and reward those people. Employment taxes and associated costs are important considerations when companies make decisions about growing their teams.”
“ Supporting apprenticeships, encouraging skills development and keeping employment costs competitive would make a practical difference to manufacturers across the country.”
Public spending must deliver value
Alongside his call for a more supportive business environment, Aston believes the Chancellor should demonstrate greater discipline in managing public expenditure.
With government borrowing and debt servicing placing continuing pressure on the public finances, he argues that improving the effectiveness of spending deserves as much attention as raising additional revenue.
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