The new Prime Minister should commit to a clear UK energy strategy to deliver a nuclear power station in West Cumbria.

That is one of 15 demands made by the British Chambers of Commerce to Boris Johnson as he takes over as PM today.

Rob Johnston, chief executive of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “Theresa May’s government made a pledge to create a zero-carbon economy by 2050 but left us with an energy policy in disarray.

“Lack of clarity on funding led to the collapse of plans for nuclear power stations at Moorside in Cumbria and Wylfa in Wales.

"Drawing up a clear energy strategy must be a priority.”

The British Chambers of Commerce other demands include avoiding a disorderly no-deal Brexit, investing in infrastructure and creating a light touch post-Brexit immigration system.

Mr Johnston added: “The chamber takes a neutral stance on Brexit but we know, from a survey we carried out this year, that Cumbrian businesses are ill-prepared for a no-deal departure. The new government must go all out to avoid that.

“And we know from earlier research that the county’s food and hospitality sectors are reliant on EU migrant workers. Businesses need an immigration system that works for them.”

The British Chambers of Commerce is also asking the new PM to boost funding for education, reform apprenticeship funding and business rates, and eliminate gaps in mobile phone coverage.

And it is seeking a pledge that he will not increase taxes or regulation on businesses in the next 12 months.

Dr Adam Marshall, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, has written to the PM setting out these demands.

His letter says: “Chamber members feel that long-standing domestic challenges have been sidelined while the Westminster focus has been on Brexit.

“Swift and decisive action is needed to support business, the economy and trade as we traverse the most significant period of change and uncertainty the UK has faced in a generation.”

Meanwhile, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce has invited one of the UK’s foremost economists to brief county businesses on prospects for the economy as the new PM takes office.

Suren Thiru, head of economics and trade policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, will speak at a joint event with the Bank of England in Carlisle on Wednesday August 7.

Businesses can register to attend the breakfast meeting, at Carlisle United’s Brunton Park, through the chamber’s website.