A BUSINESS leader for the south west has urged the prime minister to set out a clear strategy to ensure Britain’s future economic growth.

The open letter was signed by 53 chief executives of the Chambers of Commerce, including the managing director of Business West Phil Smith.

Business West represents the interests and voice of business in the region, including Wiltshire and Swindon.

It sounded caution that the UK economy had been “treading water” and asked Theresa May to alleviate concerns about getting the “best possible deal” for the UK after it leaves the EU.

It added: “We encourage you to bring alive and articulate and economic mission that business, government and wider public can rally behind.

"Making this happen, however, depends on your government taking swift and radical action to tackle some of the more basic and obvious barriers to growth around the UK.

“Even the best possible Brexit deal could fail to support our future competitiveness if we do not get the basics for growth here at home.”

It cited infrastructure, labour shortages, and greater support for small and medium sized businesses as areas needing clarity.