'Consider issues ahead of election'

CHRIS Fletcher, Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce

GREATER Manchester Chamber of Commerce is urging people to consider a wide range of issues during the general election campaign ­- not only Brexit.

Commenting on the Prime Minister Theresa May's decision to a opt for a June election, Chris Fletcher, the chamber's marketing and policy director, said: "I am sure the Prime Minister's announcement took many people by surprise.

In the aftermath of the EU referendum last year and the change in Government at Westminster, many commentators had predicted a quick election.

However, following the triggering of Article 50 many people then thought the moment had gone.

"Mrs May will be looking for the general election to offer certainty and support at this time, and to give her and the Government a firm platform to take the UK through the next few years of negotiations and decision-making.

"From a business perspective, it is important that whatever government is elected in June continues to understand the need to do what is best for business and the economy, in what will be months and years of uncertainty.

The election isn't and should not just be about Brexit but all the other issues that our members face on a daily basis."