Local people will know that I’m a strong supporter of our city’s small businesses, from pubs, restaurants to local shops and traders.
I use and enjoy them as a fellow resident. I’ve ran a Support Local business awards every year since I was elected, and I host a ‘Pint with your MP’ in a local pub regularly. I host a business forum bringing together local traders in Southsea to help revitalise our high streets and ensure action on community safety and I’m calling for a Business Improvement District to drive improvements on our city’s high streets.
Additionally, before Christmas I brought together local publicans and those working in the hospitality sector to discuss challenges faced and the changes we can make to support them, which you can read about in further detail here.
I recognise the challenges many have faced in recent years as well as pressures they continue to face. As MP, I will continue to ensure Portsmouth’s voice is heard to bring much-needed certainty and targeted support to our city’s small businesses. We can all play our part to #SupportLocal.
You can read the Government’s Small Business Action Plan here.
