Birmingham's business community is waiting to be convinced about the value of an elected mayor to the city.

As part of the second quarterly economic survey of 2011 by Birmingham Chamber, which represents 3,000 members companies in the city and Solihull, businesses were asked if they wanted an elected mayor. While 36 per cent were in favour, 23 per cent declared no and 41 per cent did not know.

Those who voted yes felt the greatest value of a mayor would be enhancing the city profile (38 per cent), while 23 per cent thought it would improve economic performance and political accountability and 22 per cent said it would provide clear leadership.

There was a nil return to the suggestion that the position is prestigious and would attract a high calibre of candidate.

The main reason for those voting against an elected mayor was that he or she would not have any new powers (33 per cent), while 26 per cent felt it would break the link between Leader of the city and would lead to infighting and obstruction.

The same number said they were opposed because Birmingham's problems were too entrenched for one person to tackle. 

Asked about priorities for an elected mayor, the majority (31 per cent) voted for economic growth. Other issues resulted: transport/infrastructure (seven per cent), education/skills (eight per cent), unemployment (14 per cent), inward investment (12 per cent), regeneration (14 per cent) and city profile (14 per cent).

Members were also asked if they felt Birmingham's voice would be drowned out by other elected city mayors. A total of 23 per cent agreed with 43 per cent saying no and 34 per cent saying they did not know.