Prime Minister calls for MPs to buddy-up to business

He wants politicians to take part in the Business Buddy work experience scheme run by the Forum of Private Business.

The initiative gives politicians hands-on experience with companies in their constituency so that they can gain a greater understanding of how small businesses work and the challenges facing them.

Cameron visited small businesses in his West Oxfordshire constituency and praised the region’s diverse range of firms – from renewable energy companies to specialist shops and cutting-edge design businesses.

He wrote in favour of the buddy scheme: “I would encourage all members of Parliament to take advantage of this opportunity to find out what it is really like to run a small business and to gain a better understanding of the many issues faced by small businesses across the country.”

He added: “the Coalition Government is committed to making the coming decade the most entrepreneurial and dynamic in Britain’s history.

“To make this a reality, we need to understand the real issues that small businesses face on a day-to-day basis and use that information to help ensure that entrepreneurs are given every opportunity to successfully start and grow their businesses.

Cabinet Office minister Oliver Letwin will visit Bridport Gourmet Pies in his West Dorset constituency tomorrow as part of the scheme. Letwin said: “I am greatly looking forward to this visit. I see a lot of the work of local businesses - but I always learn something new each time."

Other politicians signed up so far include: business secretary Vince Cable, shadow education secretary Andy Burnham and Green Party leader Caroline Lucas.

Businesses wishing to take part should email getbritaintrading@fpb.org, visit www.fpb.org or call 01565 626 019.

Business Buddy is part of the Forum’s Get Britain Trading campaign to raise awareness of the important economic role played by small businesses and tackle barriers preventing them from growing and creating jobs. To find out more visit www.getbritaintrading.com.

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