SUPPORTING SMALL SHOPS AT CHRISTMAS

Early day motion 1201, tabled 6 December 2005 by Greg Mulholland (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 42 members.

That this House recognises the value small shops add to local communities by offering real choice and quality to consumers as well as contributing to the local economy; encourages people to support local small businesses by doing their Christmas shopping in independent small shops, whether it is turkey from the butchers or Christmas presents from the great variety of small specialist retailers; welcomes the growing number of local and national campaigns which aim to encourage people to shop locally to preserve the diversity of towns and high streets, including the Wharfedale & Airdale Observer's We're Backing Otley & Aireborough campaign and the Ilkley Gazette's We're Backing Ilkley and Wharfedale campaign; further recognises the quality of goods produced by local farmers in time for Christmas and encourages shoppers to buy local produce; praises the level of service offered by small shops; and encourages people to enjoy a more traditional and fun festive shopping experience by supporting the UK's small shops this Christmas.

Signatures by party: Labour 13, Conservative 11, Liberal Democrat 9, DUP 7, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1.