'Work experience' recommended for MPs
Sep 16 2011
Cameron is keen for MPs to experience the day-to-day workings of small businesses
Prime Minister David Cameron is encouraging MPs to gain valuable ‘work experience' in small businesses by taking part in an initiative to give politicians an insight into the operations of smaller firms.
The Business Buddy scheme, run by the Forum of Private Business (FPB), aims to foster a greater understanding of small businesses among politicians by providing them with hands-on experience of day-to-day life at a company in their constituency.
As part of the scheme, Cabinet Office minister Oliver Letwin will visit Bridport Gourmet Pies in his West Dorset constituency.
Cameron says, ‘The Coalition government is committed to making the coming decade the most entrepreneurial and dynamic in Britain's history.
‘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.’
The prime minister says he has spent time visiting small businesses in his West Oxfordshire constituency recently and praised the region's diverse range of firms, from renewable energy companies to specialist shops and cutting-edge design businesses.
‘I would encourage all MPs to take advantage of this opportunity to find out what it is really like to run a small business and to gain a better understanding of the many issues faced by small businesses across the country,’ he adds.
Speaking ahead of his own visit, Mr Letwin adds, ‘I am greatly looking forward to this visit. I see a lot of the work of local businesses, but I always learn something new each time.’
Business Secretary Vince Cable, Shadow Education Secretary Andy Burnham and Green Party leader Caroline Lucas are also among those to have signed up to Business Buddy.
The scheme has come into being following FPB research in which almost three quarters (74 per cent) of members surveyed called on their elected representatives to focus on small businesses in their constituencies.
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