Business leaders urge stability in the run-up to the general election
Business leaders in Greater Birmingham said Theresa May’s decision to call a snap general election on June 8 would result in a much-needed “clear mandate” for Brexit and other global tensions.
Paul Faulkner, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “We understand the importance of having a Government with a strong, clear mandate as we enter the most important negotiation of our generation – Brexit.
“This election, provided it receives the go-ahead from Parliament, should provide that backing to the winner and make clear the will of the British public.”
He said business would also like to see stability – or as close to it as possible – in the run up to the vote.
The region already faces the prospect of electing its first Metro Mayor just a month earlier and with global tensions escalating then the stability craved may be hard to achieve.
“There is no denying the growing uncertainties on the horizon not just on Brexit but on other global political tensions,” added Mr Faulkner.
“The run-up to the General Election cannot divert Government’s attention from delivering strong domestic policy, clear negotiating tactics on Brexit and maintaining and growing the UK’s position on the international stage.”
Jason Wouhra, chairman, Institute of Directors West Midlands said: “Businesses are having to get used to being buffeted by the changing winds of politics at the moment, and will just have to endure yet another campaign. This must be used as a chance to properly debate what leaving the EU means for the long-term future of the UK, including how we continue to bring in the skills employers need.
“While Brexit will inevitably dominate the campaign, there are also much wider questions that need to be addressed on the changing nature of business and work, automation and our ageing society. These can’t be ignored in the run up to June 8, and the business voice must be heard in this crucial discussion.”
Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Businesses have had to weather a great deal of uncertainty in the last 18 months or so, and have continued to drive forward our economy. That has to continue especially as Brexit starts to become a reality.
“A general election must not be allowed to derail what has been impressive progress, and our economic fortunes must not be hostage to political points scoring from the parties in the run up to the election.”
Her opposite number at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, Sara Williams, said: “Businesses will welcome the potential stability a government with a strong mandate can provide. During the Brexit negotiations, we must ensure that the business priorities of a strong domestic economy and a clear timetable for Brexit are not forgotten during a general election.
“We expect any government to get the best deal for the people and businesses of this country.”
ICAEW Director of Business, Stephen Ibbotson, said: “Whatever the outcome of the snap election, the scale of the challenge for the incoming Government is significant.
“It’s important to note that national debt is now at £130,000 per household, with the interest bill forecast to be £46bn per annum by the end of the 2018 financial year.
“A robust plan underpinned by strong financial management should be implemented by the incoming Government to deal with the nation’s finances and to spearhead the UK’s economic reboot.”
Carolyn Fairbairn, CBI Director-General, said: “Businesses will be looking to each political party to set out their plans to support economic stability and prosperity over the next Parliament in a way that is fair and sustainable for communities across the UK.
“Distraction from the urgent priorities of seeking the best EU deal and improving UK productivity must be kept to a minimum.
“Firms will want to hear commitments from all parties to work in close partnership with business and back a new Industrial Strategy to make the UK economy the most competitive in the world by 2030.”
