I consider backing local businesses to be one of the most important roles that I have as South Suffolk’s MP. These businesses are at the heart of our local economy, remain essential to our communities and, crucially, provide jobs. South Suffolk is host to a large amount of fantastic businesses and I am committed to supporting all of them by campaigning to ensure that they are given the optimal environment in which to prosper.

I am also passionate about the creation of new businesses and, as an entrepreneur, I appreciate that starting a new enterprise can be a rewarding but also daunting experience. I am proud to be part of a party that has created a package to help small businesses. A range of bold measures introduced by the last Government led to the creation of 760,000 more businesses since 2010, and the Prime Minister has set out our ambition of 600,000 business starts each year by 2020.

Since being elected I have visited many of our businesses to discuss their successes, concerns and ideas. I have also raised a number of points to be considered in the business rates review directly with the Minister concerned. I am campaigning for an improved broadband service and wholly encourage the creation of apprenticeships across the constituency.