John Penrose to gain first-hand experience of red tape

Following his recent proposals to effectively free businesses from the bureaucratic red tape , Penrose will visit Mendip Outdoor Pursuits to find out more about the red tape barriers that stifle growth and job creation.

“It’s very easy for MPs to get cut off from reality in the Westminster bubble, which is why it’s so important to get back to the shop floor with local tourism businesses every once in a while,” said Penrose.

“Nothing beats personal experience of what’s working, and what’s holding people back from growing their businesses and creating more jobs.

“For example, we’ve done a lot to cut through the crazy red tape that holds up so much progress in the leisure and hospitality industries, but everyone in the business knows there’s plenty more to do. This is my chance to see what people need at the sharp end.”

The visit has been arranged as part of the recently-launched Business Buddy scheme, which aims to foster a greater understanding of small businesses among politicians by providing them with hands-on experience of day-to-day life at firms in their constituencies.

Prime Minister’s backing

The scheme has been also given backing by Prime Minister David Cameron, who has encouraged his fellow MPs to get involved.

“The Coalition Government is committed to making the coming decade the most entrepreneurial and dynamic in Britain’s history,” said Cameron.

“To make this a reality, we need to understand the real issues that small businesses face on a day-to-day basis and use that information to help ensure that entrepreneurs are given every opportunity to successfully start and grow their businesses.”

Earlier this year, BigHospitality revealed how red tape is costing small firms an average of £14,000 a year . Business Buddy is part of the wider Get Britain Trading campaign, which aims to both raise awareness of the important economic role played by small businesses, and lobby for the Government to tackle issues such as red tape.

Business owners seeking more information about the Forum’s Business Buddy scheme or Get Britain Trading should email getbritaintrading@fpb.org or visit www.fpb.org .