Diary

Family businesses and SMEs put politicians to work

By Attracta Mooney

What does a career politician, with little experience of working outside of the dark halls of Westminster or Brussels, know about the intricacies of running a family business?

Some might argue that the answer is little and this is something British prime minister David Cameron is hoping to tackle by working with the Forum of Private Business.

He’s backing the organisation’s Business Buddy scheme, aimed at encouraging MPs to gain experience in local small businesses.

“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 said.

Tomorrow (16 September) it’s the turn of Cabinet Office minister Oliver Letwin, who is off to Bridport Gourmet Pies – established by Martin Aldridge and his wife Janet in 2000.

Others also signed up to the scheme include business secretary Vince Cable, shadow education secretary Andy Burnham and Green Party leader Caroline Lucas.  

Top Stories