Small businesses and sole traders play a huge part in our country’s economy, but don’t always have the power or influence of the big corporates. I was self-employed for more than half my career and use that experience to help local firms.
Good to visit MA Group in Aylesbury this afternoon - a leading integrated property services company. With more than 80 staff in the town and many more nationwide, it works with insurance firms to process claims and organise repairs - for example after floods or fire.
Convenience stores play an invaluable role in our communities. Todav I visited two, starting at Ash Service Station in Wendover. The staff there are doing an excellent job despite the frustrations of the appalling traffic jams outside caused by HS2 works on the A413. Ascona Group
I had a fascinating visit to De Soutter Medical in Aston Clinton. They develop, produce & sell more than 800 surgical tools, especially for orthopaedics.
Thoroughly enjoyed the Historic Fayre at Discover Bucks Museum, where there was a very lively performance of royal history. It was good spending time with dignitaries from past and present!
Good to speak to the Minister for Small Business, Kevin Hollinrake MP, about the excellent work being done by family firms in Aylesbury. Discussed the VAT cliff-edge, corporation tax, investment, and ways to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses. Buckinghamshire Business First
Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy. One excellent example is JCL Glass based at Gatehouse in Aylesbury. Since it started in 2007, this family firm has grown from two to 25 staff, expanded its factory and made substantial investments in new, high-tech machinery.
With more small & micro businesses in Buckinghamshire than any other county, I was glad to hear about vital efforts to speed up payments to these crucial companies in the House of Commons this evening.