Politicians must listen to business, says chamber

THE country needs future government politicians to build “real links” with their business communities after being ignored during Brexit uncertainty, according to a new “manifesto” from city leaders.

The demand is part of a General Election manifesto launched by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

Called Business Priorities: General Election 2019, it has been developed by the chamber in consultation with the Chamber Council, the body elected from the membership to steer policy and campaigning activity.

It also backs the British Chambers of Commerce national campaigns on Brexit, people development, infrastructure, international trade, business costs and investment.

Among its priorities for Greater Birmingham are proactively championing the strategic importance of HS2 and the role it will play in building capacity on the road and rail network.

It also wants to see the Government working with the business community to maximise the local economic benefits from HS2, the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and other major investment projects.

The chamber wants to see clarity over the new Birmingham Clean Air Zone on how long the Euro 6 emission standards will be compliant with air quality legislation and ensuring with Birmingham City Council that all funds generated are reinvested transport.

The manifesto also wants to see promotion and protection of town centres and high streets and an increased capacity and reliability of

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Paul Faulkner, chief executive of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “Our manifesto

services. calls for interventions on a number of key areas for businesses. But most importantly, it urges our future leaders to end Brexit uncertainty and reconnect with the business community.

“It was designed with our Chamber Council to ensure it fully reflects the priorities of our members.

“We hear from too many businesses who feel their needs and those of the people they employ and communities that they sustain have been ignored during this unprecedented period. Above all, we urge politicians of all parties to build real links and relationships with your local business community both through the Chamber and the employers in your constituency.

“This country cannot grow, prosper or even simply sustain itself without businesses.”

This country cannot grow, prosper or even simply sustain itself without businesses.

Paul Faulkner