SMALL SHOPS

Early day motion 1849, tabled 20 March 2006 by Vincent Cable (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 81 members.

That this House values the diversity and choice offered by small independent and local shops in the face of the growing dominance of national chains; recognises the increasing difficulties that small independent and local shops are facing with large rent rises in town centres and high streets; applauds the Evening Standard's Save our Small Shops campaign; encourages the public to make use of small, independent, local shops; condemns those landlords who raise rent excessively, letting only to chain stores; urges consideration of new business conservation areas that cap the number of chain stores; supports the proposal for small shop loyalty card schemes for every borough; and urges simplification of the regulation to which small shops are obliged to adhere.

Signatures by party: Labour 34, Liberal Democrat 23, Conservative 18, DUP 3, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, Plaid Cymru 1.