Anna Dixon asks Minister about support for small businesses in Shipley

Anna Dixon, MP for Shipley constituency, today used a local business as an example in the House of Commons to ask the Labour government about its efforts to support small and medium-sized businesses.

The West Yorkshire MP sighted The Greek Corner, a newly opened cafe in Shipley, as a blueprint for how local authorities can support new businesses while speaking to Gareth Thomas MP, the Minister for Services, Small Business and Exports.

Ms Dixon also praised the Chancellor’s decision to introduce measures in this week’s budget to help revitalise the high streets in places like Shipley, Bingley and Saltaire.

Anna Dixon asked the minister: “Small businesses such as the Greek Corner in Shipley have benefited from Bradford council’s business growth programme, funded by the town's fund, which provides capital assistance for businesses to create new jobs.

“The support measures announced yesterday in the Chancellor’s Budget for local authorities and small businesses will be vital to revitalising our high streets.

“Does the Minister agree that local authorities working with local communities are best placed to direct investment to help SMEs grow?”

Gareth Thomas MP replied: “Let me take this opportunity to congratulate my hon. Friend on her election, too. I agree that local authorities working with local communities are fundamental to supporting SMEs in local economies.

“That is one reason why, as well as backing local authorities in yesterday’s Budget, we are backing Tracy Brabin, the excellent Mayor of West Yorkshire, with funding to support the priorities of local communities in constituencies such as that of my hon.”

“Friend. It is also why we are introducing measures such as high street rental auctions and a powerful community right to buy so that local communities can start the process of reviving their high streets.”

Anna Dixon later visited The Greek Corner in Shipley to discuss further how the new government can support small businesses. See more here: https://www.facebook.com/AnnaDixonMP/posts/pfbid0aj5dq7jGGVTwLVe6Yw6iVVHm4Yk186418H8qECW2AdALPjJT8gzm9NJcEMjTudnYl