In a manifesto released this month, the association asked whichever political party comes into power on 12 December to make a raft of changes including delivering High Speed 2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail, implementing findings of the Williams Rail Review, and ensuring the Heathrow Airport expansion kick-starts airspace modernisation.

“What has been clear over the past three years is that the government has been paralysed by Brexit, and that this has prevented serious discussions about the future needs of the business travel sector,” said Clive Wratten, BTA’s chief executive. 

"Very often, UK governments of both colours have been guilty of taking the ’easiest’ option about major infrastructure projects – kicking them down the road or just papering over the cracks.

“We’re calling for politicians to be more ambitious, to listen to business people, and to get on and deliver the investment and modernisation our nation needs.”

The manifesto also calls for reforms of Air Passenger Duty and public transport. 

It says research suggests the average overseas trip triggers a £34,000 contribution towards the UK’s Gross Domestic Product.

Wratten added: “Whatever your personal views on Brexit, it is clear that the UK can only prosper if it is ready to meet the challenges of the future head-on.

“Our policy recommendations are designed to ensure that companies have the best possible conditions to get out and do business, whether they are looking near or far for those opportunities.

“Put simply, business travel is at the heart of the country’s prosperity.”