The Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, was in Cornwall this week and took time to speak to members of the Cornwall Region of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).
At a meeting hosted by local MP, Andrew George, at the Queens Hotel in Penzance, Clegg was updated on the FSB’s Keep Trade Local manifesto, which calls for local authorities and central government to look at how they can boost grassroots economies by working in partnership and helping independent high street businesses to grow.
Ann Vandermeulen, development manager for the FSB in Cornwall, said: “It was pleasing that Mr Clegg and Mr George were keen to listen to local issues, take them on board as evidence of the real problems and to hear how local people thought they should be addressed.
“We lobby extensively at all levels and the Government clearly understands the issues, we just need them to act. Indeed Mr Clegg was already aware of our campaign. However, it is important that our high ranking politicians come out to see for themselves and experience just what is going on outside the walls of Westminster.
“We will be looking out for outcomes from Mr Clegg’s visit today and whilst it was welcome and we would like to see more of this kind of ‘in person’ interest in Cornwall. Our parting message was don’t just leave it to election time, come back with some answers very soon please!”
