(from left) Northampton MPs Mike Reader and Lucy Rigby with Simon Cox, head of policy at Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce and Becky Bradshaw, UON's chief operating officer and Deputy Vice Chancellor.
ENGAGEMENT with business is crucial in shaping the decisions of the policy makers in Westminster, MPs have told business leaders in Northampton.
The town’s MPs Lucy Rigby and Mike Reader joined a forum of Northamptonshire business leaders who aired their views on the key issues of taxation, skills, education and connectivity.
They also discussed how they can play their part in support, representation and collaboration. Businesses must share their stories, challenges and successes with the policy makers in order to ensure that the voice of Northamptonshire business is heard and use facts, figures and feedback from the county to influence national thinking, the MPs said.
Lucy Rigby, MP for Northampton North, said: “Listening to and answering questions from industries including law, logistics, education and tech provided a real insight into what businesses want to see by way of support from government and the issues affecting the commercial environment at the moment.”
Northampton South’s MP Mike Reader added: “It is extremely important for me to have a personal connection with local business to better understand the issues they are facing. This is why events like this are vital.”
The Meet the MPs forum, organised by Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, took place at the University of Northampton. The Chamber’s head of policy Simon Cox highlighted the importance of the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey in providing up-to-date information and data to keep Westminster’s finger on the economic pulse.
“By coming together, we were able to discuss business matters with the elected MPs for Northampton as well as highlight the importance of the Quarterly Economic Survey, which feeds directly into government discussions.”
Business owners were encouraged to participate actively to ensure their experiences help to shape future support, he added
“As the local economy faces new challenges and opportunities, events like these are crucial for building a stronger, more resilient future.
“I would like to thank both Lucy and Mike for their willingness and openness in answering questions, spending the time with local businesses and look forward to further engagement.”
Kevin Rogers, chair of regional law firm Wilson Browne Solicitors – a Chamber Platinum Partner – said: “While always interesting, these are more than just ‘nice chats’. Lucy and Mike shared key strategies for business engagement, reinforcing the Chamber’s commitment to collective growth. We look forward to even more engagement to support growth.”
Mike Reader said: “I am grateful to the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce for organising this event and allowing us to have this first-hand experience. Lucy and I are committed to supporting our local economy and ensuring prosperity across Northampton.”
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