HARDLY any managers believe limiting the movement of labour across Europe is a priority for them, according to a study.

Despite the political focus on immigration, company bosses said they would rather the Government made it easier to give work experience to youngsters.

A survey by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) found that many pledges from political parties were not in line with managers' priorities.

The poll of more than 1,200 managers found that only two out of five agreed with abolishing zero hours contracts, another subject which has generated a lot of political interest.

Closing tax loopholes was the only area where managers agreed with politicians, said the report.

Ann Francke, chief executive of the CMI, said: "It is clear that there is a mismatch between the Westminster village and UK managers. The big question is why, and what do politicians need to do to connect with this significant segment of the electorate?

"Our report shows that it's all about improving productivity. Employers want people-focused policies that will help them up-skill and motivate their teams. Rather than election rhetoric we need to see a commitment to shifting business culture in this direction.

"We must move away from an obsession with short-term priorities and help organisations to be clearer about their purpose, to better support their people, and to invest to grow future potential."

Only 4 per cent of those polled said limiting the movement of labour across the EU was a priority for them.