In May we will be going to the polls to elect a new government but the big question is whether the campaigns from all political parties will turn voters on, or off.

Business Argus has asked the local business community how important the right vote is to them...

Noel Williams, partner, Kilsby & Williams, Newport

Voting is a two way contract. Firstly, it is of huge importance that all those who are able to vote do so. The will of the people is paramount. However it is incumbent on voters to understand the key policies of the different parties so their vote is a considered one. Those who vote for candidates without careful consideration or because it’s the thing to do in a particular community do a disservice to democracy.

Andrew Lewis, CEO, Monmouthshire Building Society

I’d encourage everyone to register to vote and, where possible, to play an active role in politics. The very fact that people, particularly women, fought so hard for the right to vote, and so many people across the world are still waiting for a taste of democracy, makes me proud of the many achievements fought for and won here in the UK. Of course, there are many things we have to complain about with the current system, but each and every vote counts and the impact parties have on business and the economy (not to mention our schooling, the NHS and other valuable public services) is enormous. You only have to look at the impact austerity has had on our public services to see that the decisions made by the Government have a very real impact on each and every one of us.

Guy Jones, NatWest’s director of commercial banking for Cardiff and East Wales

While the question ponders the importance of voting, there is probably an even bigger question for politicians to consider - how to better engage with the UK voting population and then present credible policies that are properly understood and embraced. Younger generations appear disengaged from the political landscape, whilst media opinion and personality traits undoubtedly deflect from the importance of the core policies themselves. The world economy is still in a fragile state and Europe in particular shows little sign of a sustained recovery. This year’s General Election will therefore be crucial to the future direction of the UK economy and the prospects for UK business. As well as using our right to vote, we must all take time to reflect carefully on the key policies put before us and discharge that privilege with both care and hope. Voting underpins democracy and the basis of our society today.

John Newell, of Kingston Newell, Newport

There is a huge amount of apathy regarding the elections and the seemingly endless coverage of politicians promising everything including the kitchen sink to try to win your vote. While I agree it all can become quite tedious, it is very important that everyone who can, should vote as it is our right and regardless of whether the politician or party you voted for won, you have exercised your right and had your say. With regards to the impact on business and the economy, without wanting to become political, is there a significant difference between these policies in the mainstream parties?