BUSINESS leaders in Worcestershire and Herefordshire today called on the next Government to devise a strategy for manufacturing after thousands of job losses in the sector.

The Chamber of Commerce in the two counties said it was time to address the decline, which again hit the region, with the closure of MG Rover.

Speaking before polling day tomorrow, chamber chief executive Christine Jones said the area must focus on innovation to stay ahead of, and even in, the game.

"Manufacturing is critical to the economy of the two counties and a comprehensive strategy is vital from the next Government," she said.

"More than 1,200 people have been affected by the Rover situation in North Worcestershire alone, and that is before its impact on the supply chain is known.

"A lot of the skills, if they are not immediately reused, will be lost. We have to make sure we are working to keep skills up to date. Different factors, such as increased insurance, high oil prices and tax fears, are making many businesses in the region vulnerable.

"But we must encourage manufacturers to look at their local operations by concentrating on the great design and innovation that this country is so well known for," Ms Jones said.

On broader issues, the chamber warned that the next Government must ensure a long-term, stable economy if it wanted to achieve all its other aims.

"We must have low inflation, predictable and low interest rates and a steady GDP growth," added Ms Jones.

"This is not only vital for businesses but for everything else in this country.

"The election campaign has been almost silent on the business agenda. All political parties acknowledge the importance of business, but the hard detail is missing," she added.