Following a welcome from Branch Chairman Tim Colman, Maria spoke about the economic situation and gave an overview of the measures the Government is taking to help small and medium enterprises. She also responded to questions on a range of issues.
Maria said: “We are taking a whole range of actions to help smaller businesses to continue to prosper during these difficult times. These include the “Red Tape Challenge” to try to reduce burden of regulation on business, and new ways in which businesses can access finance and other support.”
Maria added: “The Government’s biggest economic priority is to reduce the deficit and restore stability. Because of the overhang of debt, we have always warned that recovery would be choppy.”
Maria also highlighted the important role that the M3 Local Enterprise Partnership has to play in the growth of local businesses, and applauded them for securing £210,000 from the Government’s Start Up Fund.