Having worked for fifteen years as an entrepreneur before coming to Parliament and having previously served on three occasions as a Business Minister, I passionately believe in local Business – which is the real engine of our local and national economies.

That’s why it was a pleasure to join the Wayland Chamber of Commerce again recently – this time for their latest ‘Business Talks’ event to speak to members and participate in a panel discussion alongside Rob Walker (Deputy Chief Executive of Breckland Council), Jack White (MD of White’s Training Services Ltd), Liz Whitcher (Watton and Saham Toney Flood Action Group) and Mark Humphries (Draper and Humphries Clock Repairs and Antiques).

Compered by the Chamber’s brilliant Chair David Dent, we discussed the variety of challenges and opportunities facing local Wayland businesses and entrepreneurs, and explored the potential for innovation growth and development for the benefit of our local communities. We also engaged in an interesting Q+A with local Chamber members, discussing a whole host of matters that are important to the local business community.

Rest assured, I will continue to be a vocal champion of local Business – and I am discussing a range of follow-up actions with the Chamber as we look to build on a successful event and give local entrepreneurs an even stronger voice.

To find out more about my work ‘Backing Local Business’, please visit my campaign page here.