Local businesses across the Aire, Wharfe and Worth Valleys need the support of their customers more than ever following the introduction of Labour’s National Insurance rises, the area's local MP has warned.
Speaking ahead of Small Business Saturday which takes place this weekend, local MP Robbie Moore encouraged shoppers to take a closer look at local firms to see what they have to offer and focus their Christmas shopping on small businesses close to home.
It comes after Chancellor Rachel Reeves faced criticism for a rise in employers national insurance, which the Office for Budget Responsibility estimates will cost businesses an additional £800 per employee.
The number of businesses closing in the week after Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Budget increased by 64 per cent, compared to the previous year.
Mr Moore wants people to take another look at the High Street and beyond this weekend, to help give local firms a boost now and in the run up to Christmas.
The local MP is also running his annual Small Business Awards and Small Business Advent Calendar, aimed to promote small businesses across the area.
Residents can nominate their favourite small business at robbiemoore.org.uk/nominate.
Speaking about Small Business Saturday Robbie Moore MP Said:
"Small businesses and family firms are the backbone of our local economy, and in the run up to Christmas is so important we eat, drink, shop and do business locally.
Labour’s recent budget measures have put a lot of extra pressure on our local businesses, who now face thousands in extra costs, so now more than ever do we need to support our fantastic businesses.
I hope as many people as possible will get out and support Small Business Saturday this weekend!”
