The CBI has expressed disappointment that Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn turned down an invitation to address the business group's national conference.
The CBI said it was told Mr Corbyn was too busy to attend the event in London next Monday.
Director general John Cridland said businesses respected Opposition leaders and wanted to work with them to help promote pro-enterprise policies.
Mr Cridland added that the size of Mr Corbyn's vote in securing the Labour leadership showed many people wanted an "alternative" kind of politics.
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"There are people who cannot feel the economic recovery, and that is not good for business," he said.