The leader of the council's opposition Labour Group, Coun. David Scott today welcomed the contribution made by employers, including business and educational and training establishments at the first York Business Forum meeting.

Speaking after the meeting, Coun. Scott said:

"I was impressed by the number of people who were prepared to come along and express their feelings as what needs to be done to strengthen York's economy. I have been pushing for this type of forum for over 18 months and was delighted with the numbers who attended and the contributions they made.

"Over 70 employers representing all sizes of business were present from small employers to some of York's largest. I was impressed by their commitment to making York more competitive in the future.

"It was a little disappointing that despite the Future York report calling over a year ago for the council to show vision and leadership that businesses still feel that the city needs vision and strong and trustworthy leadership".

"Coun. Waller must now show that he can show that leadership and vision and prove to those who gave up their valuable time that this was not just a talking shop and that real action will follow."

"I call upon him to make all the arrangements necessary for the Economic Development Board to be convened - it hasn't met since March. In case he hasn't noticed the country is facing an economic crisis and he needs to do his bit to protect the interests of residents and businesses in York."