The current government must use its last Budget before the election to nurture economic growth by supporting UK businesses, it has been claimed.
According to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the forthcoming budget must boost confidence in the UK's public finances and encourage economic stability.
The group said chancellor Alistair Darling should focus on minimising obstacles to growth, investment and employment in order to improve UK competitiveness.
"With the public sector about to be squeezed, it will be up to business to take up the slack and deliver the growth needed to get the economy back on track," said CBI director-general Richard Lambert.
He added that the Budget should do "whatever is necessary and possible" to strengthen the UK's reputation as an attractive place to invest.
The call comes after the Road Haulage Association called for the next government to show greater support for the country's logistics and transport industry.
Chief executive Geoff Dunning said the sector provides the "essential link" in UK supply chains and must be backed by ministers if the country's economy is to prosper.
