Local jobs and businesses are vital in any thriving community. We are lucky to have a range of fantastic employers locally, from major international headquarters and logistics hubs, to high street shops and thousands of small businesses. These provide local employment and opportunities and many also provide active support across our communities.
Unfortunately though, many businesses are also struggling - the combined impact of increases in employer taxation, business rates, energy costs, wage costs and more is placing huge pressure, and across the country we are already seeing businesses fold as a result.
Our communities thrive when we have great shops, services and opportunities locally, and one of my top priorities is to ensure we retain this across Runnymede and Weybridge. I campaign in Westminster against policies that harm businesses and growth, celebrate local businesses and enourage residents to support local wherever possible.