The Government recognises the “enormous” potential within the West Midlands, according to mayor Richard Parker.

But, speaking at a Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce event to mark one year since the Business Commission West Midlands report, the mayor warned the region cannot achieve economic prosperity if people with low skills and from deprived areas are left behind. 

Mr Parker answered questions during the event at John Cadbury House, part of Aston University, in Birmingham city centre.

He praised the work of the Commission, which was convened last year by the GBCC in partnership with the Black Country and Coventry & Warwickshire Chambers, in informing how the region approaches business growth.

“I think this is a great piece of work and I found it really useful post-election to inform the way we need to approach growth and support businesses,” said Mr Parker.

Outlining his priorities for growth, the mayor vowed to harness his connections within national Government to drive investment in the region.

He added: “My top messages are that this region has been overlooked and left behind by national Government for too long - and if we can attract some investment into this place, the return for Government is enormous.

“So, it's not about going with a begging bowl, it's now about going with an offer - if you support what we're doing, we can unlock real potential and opportunities.

“The government recognise that, I think you’ll see that through some announcements today [in the Spring Statement] and some in the spending review in the summer.”

© MDB Photography West Midlands mayor Richard Parker

However, the mayor acknowledged the region’s skills and productivity gap, which he aims to address in his growth plan by harnessing the sectors in which the West Midlands has an “in-built competitive advantage”.

He said: “The growth plan will focus on advanced manufacturing, life sciences, digital tech, creative industries and professional services. 

“Those are the sectors in which we have an in-built competitive advantage and we can make the most of.

“So, those are the key sectors working with our universities, our colleges and our businesses to drive those forward.”

Attendees at the BCWM event heard from the GBCC’s director of external affairs Raj Kandola, who provided a recap of the Commission’s final report.

The report, based on evidence supplied by more than 130 organisations and surveying of a further 400, set out recommendations for change and action to support business growth.

It highlights the need for “a fundamental reset in our understanding of what the region's businesses need to fulfil their growth potential”.

Business Commission West Midlands was supported by sponsors Aston University, Birmingham City University, University of Birmingham, University College Birmingham and Doug Wright T/A McDonald’s.