Details have been released of an all-party team of politicians and business leaders who will put Birmingham’s case for additional funding directly to the Prime Minister.
The delegation, led by Labour council leader Sir Albert Bore, will seek to convince David Cameron that huge cuts in Whitehall grant are a mistake and threaten to create unemployment and hold back economic growth.
The city stands to lose £400 million in Government funding by 2014 as public sector spending cuts continue to bite, leaving councillors with a series of difficult decisions about cutting services.
Members of the delegation to Downing Street on September 5, described as ‘Team Birmingham’ by the council, are:
- Andy Street, Chairman of the Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership
- Jerry Blackett Chief Executive of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce,
- Councillor Randal Brew, Conservative finance spokesman
- Councillor Paul Tilsley, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group,
- Councillor Ian Ward, Deputy Leader of the City Council
- Birmingham MPs who will be led by Jack Dromey
Sir Albert said the delegation would be seeking Government support for “positive plans the city has for future economic development”.
Sir Albert added: “Birmingham is at the heart of the country’s future economic recovery. To do this we need more investment in our transport infrastructure, the development of a business investment fund, and assistance to raise skill levels in every sector.
“We need to develop partnerships and see the government as a key player. We will be making positive suggestions that would benefit the country as a whole not just Birmingham.
“I am delighted that we will be joined by representatives of business community and the Conservative and Liberal Democrat groups. This is ‘Team Birmingham’ batting for the city and showing that Birmingham is united in our determination to bring prosperity for all those who live here.”
