Birmingham businesses unconvinced about elected mayor
BIRMINGHAM’S business community is waiting to be convinced about the value of an elected mayor to the city.
As part of the second quarterly economic survey of 2011 by Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Group, which represents 3,000 members companies in the city and Solihull, businesses were asked if they wanted an elected mayor. While 36% were in favour, 23% said no and 41% did not know.
Those who voted yes felt the greatest value of a mayor would be enhancing the city profile (38%), while 23% thought it would improve economic performance and political accountability and 22% said it would provide clear leadership.
There was a nil return to the suggestion the position is prestigious and would attract a high calibre of candidate.
The main reason for those voting against an elected mayor was that he or she would not have any new powers (33%), while 26% felt it would break the link between Leader of the city and would lead to infighting and obstruction.
The same number said they were opposed because Birmingham’s problems were too entrenched for one person to tackle.
Asked about priorities for an elected mayor, the majority (31%) voted for economic growth. Other issues resulted: transport/infrastructure (7%), education/skills (8%), unemployment (14%), inward investment (12%), regeneration (14%) and city profile (14%).
Members were also asked if they felt Birmingham’s voice would be drowned out by other elected city mayors. A total of 23% agreed with 43% saying no and 34% saying they did not know.
