Trade drive gets support from area MP

Andrew Selous, MP for SW Bedfordshire, has thrown his weight behind the Federation of Small Businesses’ Keep Trade Local campaign.

The campaign was re-launched nationally in the wake of the horsemeat scandal which saw people turn to trusted local butchers’ shops.

Mr Selous said: “Small businesses are the heart of the local community. They generate wealth, employment and opportunity. But with people working longer hours and the growth of convenience, one-stop-shopping and the internet, these places are at risk. Dunstable has lots to offer and I would encourage local people to support their local high streets by using them wherever possible.”

The FSB is calling for local authorities, councils and central government to look at how they can make grassroots economies prosperous once again by working in partnership and helping their independent high street businesses to grow.

The FSB is calling for business rates to be made fairer and small business rates relief to be made permanent and to be indexed to inflation. They want government to think about planning, parking and procurement as a way to boost local trade.

Damian Cummins, who chairs Luton and South Bedfordshire FSB, said: “Once the high street starts to go into decline, it can be difficult to revive. But with the right measures from councils and local authorities the tide can be turned.

“The horsemeat scandal provided a short-term boost to our high streets, but it’s time for a more concerted effort from everybody to keep their local high streets vibrant and alive.”

Mr Selous started his tour at TaxAssist Accountants in Dunstable.