BUSINESS leaders in the region are calling on new prime minister Liz Truss to urgently outline steps to help firms cope with the current "economic turmoil".

James Mason, chief executive of West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, says immediate action is needed as high interest rates and soaring inflation hit businesses.

He added: "With the country experiencing the greatest level of economic challenge in a decade, businesses large and small need confidence that the new administration has the vision to ensure that they will not be abandoned in this most desperate of hours.

"A perfect start point would be to ensure all companies are provided with the assistance required to get through the coming months without insurmountable burdens in terms of overheads and tax."