Gareth Johnson meets with Federation of Small Businesses

Amongst the most important issues were Fuel Tax, pensions and the increasing retirement age, apprenticeships and young trainee schemes, and business financing. The meeting, including a tour of Westminster and a question and answer session with Gareth and Neville Gaunt (Chair of the FSB North Kent branch), was designed to give small business owners in Dartford and North Kent a chance to give their views on the current issues affecting businesses, share their local experiences of trade in the recession, and to network with each other. With small businesses serving as “the life and soul of local communities”, Gareth also emphasised the need to nurture and protect them in Dartford.

Gareth commented further that;

“The reason I set up this meeting with Neville Gaunt and other FSB members in Dartford was to give local businesses the chance to tell me first-hand the difficulties they are facing. There is no doubt that the recession has hit small businesses especially hard, but the passion and enthusiasm these entrepreneurs demonstrated during the discussions gave me an even stronger sense of hope for small businesses and for local trade. There is clearly a wealth of innovation and dedication in Dartford, and I fully support the vital local role that small businesses play in our community.”

Neville Gaunt, Chairman for the Federation of Small Businesses in North Kent, said: -

“Gareth Johnson MP informed 33 members of the FSB on the democratic decision making process in the Palace of Westminster with a tour of the Lords and Commons debating chambers. It is important that small businesses understand the system to ensure their voice is heard and the legislators create an environment for economic growth. The FSB is delighted that Mr Johnson engages with small businesses that contribute 59% of private sector employment and 49% of private sector turnover.”

Roger House, Regional Chairman for the FSB in Kent and Medway, said: -

“The FSB welcomed the opportunity for small businesses to raise matter with MPs. Mr Johnson was questioned on taxation and concerns that multi-national corporations appear not to be paying a fair share. The need to address youth unemployment and improvements to the apprenticeship were discussed with Mr Johnson and the incentive schemes for small businesses to recruit and train youngsters. Small businesses can offer hands-on experience to young people but require more confidence in the economic climate to make the investment.”