Support for SMEs in coastal and farming constituencies

Early day motion 660, tabled 20 January 2025 by Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 27 members.

That this House acknowledges the detrimental impact of National Insurance contribution rises and higher business rates on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly in coastal and farming constituencies like West Dorset; notes that these sectors are essential for tourism and seasonal employment but are disproportionately affected by these financial pressures; calls for fundamental reform of the business rates system to support small businesses and high streets while stopping the penalisation of productive investment; and further calls on the Government to take immediate action to alleviate the financial burden on SMEs before it forces closures that will devastate local economies.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 20, Plaid Cymru 4, Green 2, DUP 1.