It was actually very quiet, in many respects, as it was just before the new Government had the opportunity to settle in. And while we didn’t meet any of the new ministers, we did get chance to have a discussion with Richard Parker, the new mayor of the West Midlands.

I was very pleased to have that opportunity because while the new national Government is obviously key to setting the conditions for growth in the economy, the mayor’s office will play an increasingly bigger role in how that is delivered.

Andy Street also played the part of ambassador for the region extremely well and that is something that we want Richard Parker to continue, particularly as he is in the same party as the new Government.

The General Election result didn’t come as any surprise and, as a Chamber, we will continue to push on those issues that we talked about pre-election such as skills, the cost of doing business and the need for more employment land.

The Government has wasted no time when it comes to announcements around planning and we hope that this will quickly materialise in spades in the ground on housing, infrastructure and employment space.

On skills, I really do hope this Government remains committed to the apprenticeship levy and that it makes it even easier for more businesses and individuals to access apprenticeships. For me, they are the key to creating the workforce of the future for businesses of all sizes and sectors.

I would very much like to see us find a way of strengthening ties with the European Union, once again, and while nobody wants a re-run of the debates we’ve had over the past decade about the EU, I believe there is a better deal to be had for businesses to help improve trade.

Ultimately, we don’t expect miracles from any Government and we don’t even expect them to implement growth.

But if they set the right conditions, businesses will invest and grow – and that will benefit everyone.