FPB forges links with prospective MPs

NEW figures suggest that more candidates with corporate management experience are putting themselves forward as prospective MPs because they are disillusioned with existing enterprise policies.

Research from the Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT) shows that the number of potential MPs with 15 or more years of business experience has doubled since 2008.

Now the Knutsford-based Forum of Private Business (FPB) is giving prospective parliamentarians a platform to outline their plans for small businesses.

It has invited candidates to subscribe to a monthly email outlining current issues faced by small firms such as the impact of the recession, access to finance and late payment.

In addition, it is asking them to get in touch about any of these issues ahead of the General Election and to outline their plans to address them.

Phil Orford, the FPB’s chief executive, said: “In the areas of tax, regulation and finance we need stability, certainty and continuity of support. Schemes designed to protect small businesses must not be sacrificed in the name of public spending cuts.

“It is therefore vital that the voices of those candidates with business and finance experience are heard.”