‘Don’t ignore small business’

The Localism Bill aims to shift power from central government back to local communities as part of David Cameron’s Big Society philosophy.

But the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) wants the bill to better recognise the role of small businesses.

FSB Luton and South Beds Chairman Carole Hegley: “The aims of the Localism Bill are clear, but there are many issues that need to be addressed while it is still being debated and before it is enshrined in law. We call for MPs to amend the bill to ensure that the needs of local businesses are fully reflected.”

One of the issues is that businesses at risk of closure like pubs and post offices could be placed on community right to buy lists.

The FSB believes this could mean properties being devalued and that potential buyers could be deterred from buying.

Mrs Hegley added: “We want to see the Bill amended so that any community group that wants to place a property on the list should have to demonstrate the willingness and ability to buy it.”

The Localism Bill was due to receive its second reading in the House of Lords yesterday, June 7.