Political leaders must put city and its people first – Chamber
Business leaders in Greater Birmingham today called on political leaders to put the city and its people first as negotiations begin to establish who takes control of Birmingham City Council.
Birmingham is set to be governed by a so-called ‘rainbow coalition’ after no single party gained an overall majority in Thursday’s local elections.
The unprecedented vote split also means no two parties would be able to join forces for a majority.
Reform UK (22) won the most seats, followed by the Green Party (19), Labour (17), Conservatives (16) and Liberal Democrats (12), with 13 seats going to Independent candidates.
Negotiations will take place to establish who takes control of the council.
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce said elected representatives must put the city, its people and businesses first – regardless of political differences.
Henrietta Brealey (pictured), chief executive at the GBCC, said: “Whoever takes responsibility for leading Birmingham following these election results must put the city and its people first.
“At a time when businesses and communities continue to face significant economic pressures, stability, collaboration and clear leadership will be essential to restoring confidence and driving growth across the city.
“The business community will want to see elected representatives work constructively together in the interests of Birmingham, regardless of political differences.
“Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce is proudly apolitical, but we will continue to champion the voice of business and work closely with whoever takes responsibility for leading the council.
“Strong engagement with the business community will be essential if Birmingham is to move forward with confidence.”
Tamworth Borough Council and Cannock Chase Council are also in no overall control with Reform UK claiming all available seats.
In Cannock Chase, Labour lost eight seats to Reform which became the largest party with 14 councillors.
Reform also won all nine seats up for grabs in Tamworth to become the main opposition to Labour.
Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council remains under Conservative control.
The party had 19 councillors elected, with Labour winning three seats and Reform and Green gaining one each.
