The Business Exchange Swindon & Wiltshire April/May Edition 2015

BUSINESS NEWS ‘THE WORD’ with Ian Larrard Why the General Election is a Must Watch for Business At last after months of political bickering the General Election is finally in sight. For many this might be the final scene of a drawn out theatrical show, but for the 25,000 plus businesses registered in Swindon and Wiltshire this is the just the beginning. As we get set for a hugely unpredictable night on the 7 May, here are three reasons why business will be on the edge of their seats. Firstly we have the European Union, with vastly different stances from all parties our relationship with our largest international trading body is on the line. Our Local Business Survey last year found that the majority of businesses feel that the UK should remain within the EU, but not at all costs. The General Election is swiftly followed by Export Week which starts 18 May and by then we should have a slightly clearer view of what is in store for the UKEU relationship. Whilst the EU battle may take the front pages, education follows promptly on page two. From announcements on tuition fees from Labour, free schools from the Conservatives, and apprenticeships from the Liberal Democrats, the issue of skills is never off the table. Youth unemployment remains stubbornly high and we constantly hear cries from local business about skills gaps. A new government means a new five year strategy to work towards creating a steady stream of talented and ‘work ready’ young people. Whilst a new parliament will impact national issues, a new wave of local politicians could also mean the delivery of much needed local infrastructure improvements. Our Business Manifesto on behalf our members has been sent to every prospective parliamentary candidate in our region and calls for critical investments such as re-establishing rail services from Bristol to Oxford via Swindon and improving the connections between the North and South of the railway in Swindon to enhance the town centre. Although businesses do not get a polling card, hard hitting national issues such as the EU and education, and local issues such as transport connectivity hinge on the outcome. Regardless of the result, the next government must unlock the door to long term growth. This means that the eyes of the smallest to the largest businesses will be firmly fixed on the television sets come the 7 May. Director of the Initiative in Swindon & Wiltshire, part of Business West Specialist advice to the charity and ‘not for profit’ sector. Can you afford not to talk to us? THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2015 7

The Business Exchange Swindon & Wiltshire April/May Edition 2015 | Page 7