Chamber urges politicians to set out growth plans as Sunak calls General Election

Business leaders in Greater Birmingham today urged politicians to use the forthcoming General Election campaign to set out plans that will “turbocharge growth” and give businesses confidence.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced 4 July election in a statement yesterday, saying it was “the moment for Britain to choose its future”.

The announcement came hours after news that UK inflation dropped to 2.3 per cent in April.

And while business leaders said the summer election could provide greater clarity and certainty, they urged the main political parties to prioritise their plans for economic growth.

Raj Kandola (pictured), director of external affairs at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “After months of speculation, businesses will be pleased to see a date has been set for the upcoming General Election, ending a period of unwelcome uncertainty.

“As an apolitical organisation, we look forward to reviewing the manifestos produced by parties across the spectrum in order to forensically analyse their plans for driving economic prosperity in the West Midlands and beyond.

“In the coming weeks, we will continue to engage with regional and national stakeholders in order to raise awareness of the recommendations put forward by the Business Commission West Midlands.

“In particular, it's essential that our recognised political parties put forward pragmatic plans that will turbocharge growth and give local firms the confidence they need to invest and prosper across areas such as skills, international trade and innovation.”

Find out more about Business Commission West Midlands: A Roadmap for Growth.