Press Release

Spotlight on small business at party conference

9 September 2008

Thousands of politicians and delegates from the three main political parties will be implored to Keep Trade Local by the Federation of Small Businesses, (FSB), as the party conference season kicks off next week.

The Keep Trade Local campaign, aimed at preserving town centres and high streets across the UK, will be the central theme of FSB sponsored events at the Liberal Democrat, Labour and Conservative conferences, while FSB officials will also address other meetings on subjects including the economy, regulation and training.

Politicians and delegates will have the opportunity to sign the Keep Trade Local petition at the Lib Dem conference in Bournemouth during an FSB meeting with Party President Simon Hughes as guest speaker.  

The petition and information about the campaign will also be available at FSB receptions during the Labour Party Conference in Manchester and the Conservative conference in Birmingham, attended by senior politicians.

The FSB is also participating in well over 10 events including panel participation in fringe meetings organised by other think tanks and pressure groups.  

FSB National Chairman John Wright said: “The Keep Trade Local campaign is really gaining momentum and the conference season is an ideal opportunity to garner political support and get small business issues onto the political agenda.

“Small businesses are the life-blood of the UK economy and they need to be heard consistently and constantly.

“We are delighted with the raft of events and receptions put in place to promote Keep Trade Local to thousands of delegates at all the three major party political conferences.”