Approved by the Chamber’s Consultative Forum, developed and supported by major organisations and members, the document sets out the key priorities that will be championed by the Chamber on behalf of its strong business community over the coming months.

Many of the issues outlined include longstanding issues that companies across the UK face, as well as those unique to our geographical area. Throughout the Manifesto’s pages, readers will discover the key topics and themes; manufacturing, finance, transport, skills and business essentials, along with the Chamber’s responses.

The Manifesto will focus on a series of indicators from showcasing the region’s established manufacturing sector and recognising and celebrating business excellence, to maintaining and building working relationships with strategic partners and government departments.

Providing strong leadership and a unified voice for a business-driven agenda that includes lobbying government to secure a business-friendly BREXIT for UK plc, safeguarding the future interest of Black Country businesses exporting and regional investment will all play a crucial role.

Black Country Chamber President, Julie Cunningham said, “This is a significant and welcomed statement of intent and provides a clear message to government about the importance of investing in our highly successful region. Reflecting on calls from our membership and in response to very significant shifts in the political landscape it sets out the challenges, opportunities and changes that members believe will successfully impact the region.