Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has met with local businesses in Usk with the Shadow Business Minister.
Peter was delighted to host Dame Harriett Baldwin MP in Usk recently, and both attended the Nag’s Head to meet with the owner and landlord, Simon Key, other local representatives, including Cllrs Richard John, Tony Kear, Alistair Neill, Rachel Buckler and residents.
One of the main concerns discussed was Labour’s constant attacks on business, especially pubs who have seen numerous attempts by Westminster to hike their rates. Following pressure from the Conservatives, Labour have ‘partially’ u-turned on these plans, but despite this, the average independent pub will still be paying £5,300 more in business rates under Labour.
The Conservatives will back British business by increasing business rates reliefs for thousands of local firms and create a fair system that supports jobs, investment, and vibrant town centres.
Following the visit, Mr Fox praised Mr Key and other local businesses for their resilience, despite persistent and repeated moves by both the UK and Welsh Labour Governments in hiking their taxes and rates.
Commenting, local MS for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has said:
“I am very grateful to Harriett for joining me in Usk today, and for taking the time to listen to local businesses to hear first hand the impact this Labour Government is having on them.
“We were told constantly that having a Labour Government at both ends of the M4 would be a panacea, but now that couldn’t be further from reality.
“It is only thanks to pressure from the Conservatives that Labour have made another U-Turn on pub business rates, but we know our work isn’t done on challenging their damaging policies.
“I will always stand up for local businesses across Monmouthshire, and will continue to be a voice for them in Cardiff Bay.
Shadow Business Minister, Dame Harriett Baldwin added:
“Peter Fox is a doughty champion of local businesses. Our High Streets and our Pubs are being clobbered by higher taxes.
“This is leading to higher unemployment, especially for young people. Often young people get their first chance at work in a pub or a restaurant, I know I did.
“Conservatives have a fully costed plan for a 100% business rate relief on retail, hospitality and leisure businesses like pubs.”
Pic Cap (L-R): Cllr Richard John, Dame Harriett Baldwin, Cllr Alistair Neill & Peter Fox MS.
