Britain's manufacturers have urged the Chancellor to send a powerful signal to business in his forthcoming Budget, with a package of measures to show boosting productivity remains his fundamental economic goal.
Making the call ahead of a likely General Election in May, EEF West Midlands believes the growing intensity of competition from China, India, Central and Eastern Europe means it is vital that the business environment supports firms as they seek to move up the value chain.
A powerful, integrated package of measures designed to boost skills and innovation, and address export issues, would back companies in their fight to address this rising threat, it says.
In addition, EEF also believes it is critical that cost pressures should be addressed, but that no risks should be taken with the public finances which might lead to any need for tax rises in the near future.
Ian Smith, chief executive of EEF West Midlands, said: "This Budget is coming at a critical time for manufacturers who are battling with rising costs across the board and great uncertainty in their major markets.
"The Chancellor could send a powerful signal that he recognises the pressures they are facing and is prepared to support their efforts to meet intensifying competition head on."
In particular, the submission urges the Chancellor to address the sharply rising costs of energy by investigating the recent behaviour of gas prices and freezing and reviewing the Climate Change Levy.
EEF also believes the UK should use its forthcoming Presidency of the EU to intensify pressure to accelerate liberalisation of energy markets in the rest of Europe.
