19 April 2023 , 23:01
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Campaigners have organised a major business conference they hope will help fuel economic growth after the next election.
Hundreds of firms are expected to be represented at the Trade Unlocked summit in June, arranged by the Best for Britain group.
Senior Government and Shadow Cabinet members have been invited to address guests and organisers believe the summit could help shape parties’ manifestos for the next election, expected in autumn 2024.
Organising committee chairman Jürgen Maier, a former chief executive of mobile phone giant Siemens, said: “The next general election presents a chance to influence election manifestos and set a course to reverse economic stagnation with sustained economic growth.
“We simply cannot afford another decade of lost growth which could relegate the UK to being a second rate economy.
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Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced latest growth predictions at last month's Budget (Paul Marriott/REX/Shutterstock)“UK business is much better than that and this is a conference to influence, learn, innovate and trade more to raise economic output, productivity and living standards.”
Forecasters at the Office for Budget Responsibility predict Britain’s economy will shrink by 0.2% this year, with tiny gains of 1.8% next year, 2.5% in 2025 and 2.1% in 2026.
Analysts say performance has been hampered by Brexit, strikes, staff shortages and poor business investment.
Organisers hope the June 20 summit, which takes place at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre and is free to attend will provide ideas to fire up the economy.
Best for Britain boss Naomi Smith said: “As our economy stagnates, traders struggle and UK soft power wanes, policymakers are searching for solutions to these issues as they begin drafting manifestos ahead of the next election.
Best For Britain chief executive Naomi Smith (Steve Reigate)"This is why we are bringing those on the frontline of business and industry together - from fishermen to financiers, from florists to pharmaceuticals, from farmers to fintech - to send a clear message to those seeking power: reduce trade barriers, cut red tape, and give us access to skills.”
The event is being organised groups including the International Chamber of Commerce and British Chambers of Commerce.
BCC director-general Shevaun Haviland said: “Too often trade policy is set without the input of - and sometimes even against the advice of - the people and organisations that trade every day; that is what Trade Unlocked will redress.
“I’m looking forward to having businesses, trade experts and leaders come together in one room to ensure our voices are represented at the very highest levels of decision-making.”
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