Business 'forgotten' in political negotiations

Business growth and the economy has been overlooked by politicians involved in deciding the make-up of the next UK government, the Institute of Directors (IoD) has said.

In a strongly worded statement, the employers' organisation claimed important business issues have been overshadowed by other concerns as the Liberal Democrats continue talks with the Labour and Conservative parties over potential coalition governments.

"It seems to us that business growth and the economy have been forgotten during these negotiations," said Miles Templeman, IoD director-general. "This is very worrying because unless we get a strong and secure government, businesses are likely to continue to postpone investment decisions. Political uncertainty will have a negative knock on effect on business growth and job creation and, ultimately, on the whole economy."