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British business could be damaged by uncertainty about the country's political future, the new president of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has warned.

Martin Broughton, who is also chairman of British Airways, said today that the impending departure of Tony Blair and the growing challenge posed by the Conservatives to his successor could inhibit the competitiveness of UK businesses.

"The coming year will see significant changes in British politics. These will generate new opportunities for business, but will also create uncertainty as it tries to plan long-term investments and strategies amid the shifting political sands," he said.

Seeking to stake his claim as a champion of business interests, Mr Broughton insisted that companies would "not be moved by political grandstanding".

"Politicians cannot afford to take business for granted, any more than companies can take political or public trust for granted," he warned.

"The relationship between business and politicians is critical as the coming year sees legislation vital to UK competitiveness - ranging from skills to energy security and the planning system - coming before parliament. This must not be derailed by politicians in pursuit of extra votes by taking a sideswipe at business, however unwitting."

Mr Broughton replaced Cadbury chairman Sir John Sunderland as CBI president yesterday.