The Budget is on the horizon, and our small and independent businesses need our support more than ever before.
That’s why, ahead of Small Business Saturday on 29 November, I’m keen to shine a spotlight on Mid Bedfordshire’s incredible independent business scene by launching an Independent Business of the Year competition.
All you need to do to nominate your favourite local business is head to blakestephenson.uk and fill out the short form before 28th November.
There is no doubt that it has been a tough time for businesses over the last few years.
COVID lockdowns put a halt to lots of businesses for many months, and the cost of Furlough and other support schemes has meant people have had less money in their pockets to go out and spend.
Rachel Reeves’ 2024 Budget crippled businesses even further with the manifesto breaking the National Insurance increase, and the cutting of business rates relief – so it is vital we back our small independent businesses.
And I heard this loud and clear when I popped into many of the small shops in Ampthill recently – whether that was our bookshops, our cafes and many more.
Passion for local business
Everybody had a similar story to tell, but most importantly, every single person I met was passionate about their business and our local area.
My competition is just a small way of providing a publicity boost for Mid Beds businesses, but I am continuing to work with the Conservative Treasury team to hold the Government to account on its economic decisions as the Budget approaches.
And that includes sticking to promises of no more tax increases, especially for our local businesses.
Every pound spent in a local shop circulates within the community, supporting local jobs and suppliers and helping maintain vibrant high streets. And we can all play our part by choosing to buy from independent retailers, dining at local restaurants, or hiring local tradespeople.
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. And they are the backbone of our communities.
Every independent retailer, tradesperson, and café represents a vote of confidence in Britain’s future: people taking risks, creating jobs, and contributing to their local community without waiting for the state to step in.
By empowering them, we strengthen the fabric of our towns and cities, and we build a more self-reliant nation.
This is a monthly guest column provided by
Blake Stephenson, Conservative MP for Mid Bedfordshire.
It is published unedited and does not
reflect the views of the Bedford Independent.
