MP TO HOLD SPECIAL NEW YEAR ADVICE SURGERY FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES (Julia Goldsworthy)

Julia Goldsworthy <info@juliagoldsworthy.org>

MP TO HOLD SPECIAL NEW YEAR ADVICE SURGERY FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES

December 22, 2008 4:30 PM

Business leaders in Falmouth and Camborne are being invited to attend a special New Year advice surgery with MP Julia Goldsworthy.

The surgery will take place at Redruth Community Centre on Thursday January 8th, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Julia said it would help her understand the type of difficulties faced by local business as the credit crunch kicks in.

She said: "As many businesses face the prospect of a tough New Year, I want to do all I can to understand the nature of the difficulties they are facing.

"If possible I want to ensure they have access to the information and support they need. I hold regular advice surgeries for constituents who wish to share their views or ask for help, but this special New Year event is designed specifically for local businesses, to hear their experiences of the economic downturn, and how it is affecting them."

The first hour will be for those who wish to see Julia on an individual basis. Then the floor will be open for a more general discussion. Anyone who would like to attend is asked to email Julia on info@juliagoldsworthy.org.

Julia commented: "In the last few weeks there has been no shortage of government announcements. On the face of it, many of them are welcome.

"However, I know that there is often a world of difference between warm words from ministers, and the reality on the ground. This is why I hope local businesses will be able to come and share their views.

"Whether it's about the impact of the VAT cut, their experiences with HMRC, or problems with the banks, I would welcome the opportunity to discuss what more needs to be done to support our local economy through these difficult economic times.

"In particular, I am concerned about the temporary or voluntary nature of many of the government's announcements. We are still waiting for details of how the Small Business Finance and Small Firms Loan Guarantee will work.

"Similarly, the new Business Payment Support Service, set up by HMRC seems to offer little more than vague promises of flexibility. Do proposals such as these actually help, do they create more confusion, or do they miss the point entirely? These are important questions which I am hoping to be able to address."