Commenting on the Party Leaders’ speeches as the Conference season come to an end, Richard Wright, executive director of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, said:
“It is encouraging to hear the Prime Minister speaking today and putting enterprise, wealth generation and aspiration at the forefront of his speech. This will strike a chord with businesses of all sizes, as only business growth can propel Britain’s economy from being just good to being truly great. We want every party to give us the same message.
“We need all the leaders to talk about long-term planning as politicians can often think too short-term. This must be applied to infrastructure projects in particular, as these are an economic stimulus in their own right and will create jobs and drive growth for decades to come.
“If the eighteen months until the next General Election are spent on ensuring fiscal discipline, improving infrastructure, helping businesses access capital, training up our young people and supporting our exporters, then the changes the country needs are achievable.
“But if our political class descends into cheap electioneering and giveaway politics, it will have wasted a once-in-a-generation attempt to build a strong new foundation for economic growth.
“The core vision is there but the harder task of making it happen still lies ahead. No government can afford to become complacent, and must focus on creating an environment that supports enterprise, and puts economic growth at its heart.”
