He met businesspeople from a range of sectors at Draycote Hotel and said that his background means he is pro-business and pro-growth. 

“I’ve worked in the private sector so I understand what businesses want and need and my door is open to hear what issues are affecting companies across the borough, so it was great to attend the Chamber’s Local Business Forum,” he said.  

“We know that there have been challenges in recent years and that there are challenges ahead but the Government wants to put policies in place that help to deliver growth.” 

He said the borough could benefit from having a Labour MP, which is part of a Labour Government, with a Labour leader of Rugby Borough Council in Michael Moran – both of whom share a passion for business. 

Mr Slinger said: “It’s not a party political point, but I think it helps that we’re completely aligned from that point of view. It will be good for the regional economy. 

“I believe there is going to be more devolved powers to the regions and districts and between myself, Michael and other partners, we can make sure we get the best deal for Rugby.  

“We want to see an improving town centre and we want to do all we can to get the local economy moving forward. 

“That also means delivering policies at a national level that help to drive growth and that is a major part of the Government’s focus.” 

Jon Hinde, economic lead at Rugby Borough Council, told the meeting his team is producing and economic strategy for the borough that will go live next April. 

The forum also heard from Ursula Dowd, from Love to Ride – a scheme supported by Warwickshire County Council to get more people cycling to work – who encouraged firms to sign up for Cycle September, and from Karen Simmons, of Optimal Health UK , who gave a personal story as to why she is supporting businesses to look after the health of their staff. 

Sean Rose, Head of Business Representation & Policy at the Chamber, revealed the latest results from the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey which it conducts in partnership with Prime Accountants Group and Warwickshire County Council. 

Karen Shuter, the chair of the Forum, said: “The turnout for the meeting was excellent and it was great to be joined by John Slinger MP. 

“The Chamber is the voice of business in the area and it is only by hearing the views of a range of companies and organisations that we are able to speak up on the issues that matter to decision makers at a local, regional, national and international level.” 

Pictured- Sean Rose (Chamber), Karen Shuter (Chamber) and John Slinger MP with members of the Rugby Local Business Forum