Politicians 'don't understand business needs'

Many companies do not believe that politicians are sympathetic to the needs of business, a survey commissioned by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has found.

In the Populus survey, 85% of businesses said that the current government did not understand their needs, and just 19% thought the next government would prioritise these.

When asked what a future government should place high up on its agenda, 34% said taxation, 29% red tape and 11% transport.

Only 14% said they thought a Labour government would prioritise these issues. Faith in a Conservative government was higher, at 22%.

With many having very little practical experience working in business it is unsurprising that MPs do not come across as sympathetic to the need of business," said David Frost, director-general of the BCC.

"High levels of tax are clearly the number one problem," he added. "If we are to remain competitive then the Government must cut taxes for both large and small firms and look at reducing other damaging taxes such as fuel duty."

Image courtesy of UK Parliament