2021 Manifesto FINAL DRAFT - Flipbook - Page 32
• Work with anchor institutions to help them to adopt socially
helpful procurement practices. This will include monitoring the
implementation of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.
• Aim to derive maximum value from the development of HS2,
particularly in championing supply chain opportunities, and
ensuring these benefits are felt throughout the wider region and
not just one or two areas.
• Cultivate a respectful relationship with businesses of all
kinds, rightly valuing the role that they play in our society and
economy, committing to a full consultation and listening
exercise before considering changing Business Rates or
applying any additional levies.
• Champion having an SME representative on the WMCA board.
• Support the creation of more community banks to help SMEs
who cannot access finance through traditional banks. I will also
look to exclude the smallest and most vulnerable companies
from supplemental levies.
• Stimulate businesses and particularly social enterprises to
start up in areas where there is high public-sector demand in
the West Midlands but insufficient local supply.
• Work to ensure the availability of suitable units for start-up
businesses, especially manufacturing and creative premises. I
will report annually on the availability and affordability of
industrial and leisure space in the West Midlands, and what
steps the WMCA is taking to improve the situation.
Economy
I WILL: