Regional business growth ambitions discussed with House of Commons leader

Greater Birmingham businesses had the opportunity to discuss their challenges and needs with House of Commons leader Penny Mordaunt during a roundtable hosted by Birmingham-headquartered technology firm Intercity.

The roundtable event, organised by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and chaired by Midlands Engine chairman Sir John Peace, was attended by prominent business figures from the region.

Talking points included what larger West Midlands businesses need to support their growth ambitions.

And Ms Mordaunt, the Conservative MP for Portsmouth North, also heard about the findings of the Business Commission West Midlands report, which was released last month by the region’s three Chambers of Commerce as a roadmap for future growth opportunities.

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “We were pleased to welcome the Rt Hon Penny Mordaunt MP for an engaging discussion on what larger businesses across the region need to see to support their growth ambitions.

“We were also delighted to have Sir John Peace chairing the session, supporting a collaborative, joined up business voice across the Midlands.

“Earlier this year we teamed up with our neighbouring Chambers, steered by our panel of private sector Commissioners, to deliver the final report of the Business Commission West Midlands: A Roadmap for Business Growth. 

“At the heart of this influential report is a call for three things: simplification across business support, incentives and taxation, vision and clarity on the UK Government's strategy for driving business growth and consistency - a focus on mid to long-term thinking and predictability in the policy agenda.

“I was pleased to have the opportunity to discuss the report with the Leader of the House of Commons.

“I look forward to continuing to bang the drum for our region's businesses alongside colleagues, members of the Chamber and regional partners.

“I'd also like to add my particular thanks to Chamber patrons Intercity Technology for hosting the discussion.”

Pictured: From left – Sir John Peace, Intercity CEO Charlie Blakemore, Penny Mordaunt MP and Henrietta Brealey