Parker was consulting on his recently published West Midlands Growth Plan. He and Creagh wanted to hear from firms based in Coventry on the issues they are facing and what barriers they have to growth.
Crane said: “It was really positive to see so many businesses come together with Richard and Mary to discuss the future of the regional economy.
“As a Chamber, we are completely aligned with the idea that the future plans and long-term strategy for the economy also have to resonate with people in their day-to-day lives.
“Economic growth has to support social mobility and an improving quality of life for everyone.
“When I look at the Mayor’s strategy and the national government’s trade strategy, I can’t think of a region with better assets than we have in Coventry – and Warwickshire –in order to drive growth.
“I look at the MTC, our great universities, the likes of HORIBA MIRA, our incredible mix of businesses, our visitor attractions and our fantastic location and I know we have everything we need to make us fit for the economy of the future.
“So, this kind of direct engagement with the Mayor and our local MPs is absolutely vital for business and I thank Richard and Mary for bringing this event to the area.”
Mayor Richard Parker said: “To grow our economy, we need to back the brilliant businesses in Coventry that help power it. There’s so much talent and ambition in this city, and my Growth Plan will underpin the bold, collective action that we need to unlock this potential.
“Support from the Chamber and those it represents is crucial to my ambition of building strong, future-facing businesses in communities that have the homes and transport links to enable local people to secure well-paid, rewarding careers close to home.
“If we keep up the momentum behind this plan and build on the progress made since I was elected, then together we will deliver opportunity and prosperity for everyone in Coventry and the wider West Midlands.”
Mary Creagh MP said: “The business community’s positive response to the regional and national growth plans is positive and encouraging. They welcome the stability that this Government is delivering with its ten-year Industrial and Trade Strategies, because it enables them to plan and invest for the long term.
“The West Midlands Growth Plan’s focus on local and regional investment will turbocharge the development of the talent, skills and infrastructure we have in Coventry. It will attract investment from larger firms, create good, well-paid jobs in growth sectors, and provide new opportunities for small businesses in the city.
“This is at the heart the Government’s Plan for Change – building a stronger, fairer economy that works for every part of the UK and for every kind of business.”
