Liberal Democrats Hold Brainstorming Session With Small Businesses

12.00.00am GMT Wed 11th Feb 2004

Liberal Democrats will tonight meet with specially invited small business owners and industry leaders to share their views on enterprise policy, as part of a business orientated consultation session this evening.

Charles Kennedy MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, and key members of his parliamentary team, are holding the unique event as part of a major programme to take soundings ahead of the next election.

Charles Kennedy MP said: "Small businesses represent the engine room of our economy, yet entrepreneurs often feel that politicians merely pay lip service to their needs, without really understanding the challenges they face."

"The Liberal Democrats are committed to offering the British public real solutions to real problems and tonight's event will help us to formulate a comprehensive package of proposals which will encourage small businesses to thrive."

Brian Cotter MP, Liberal Democrat Small Business Spokesman, said: "We have invited representatives from the small business community to open up a dialogue with us, so that we can use their day to day experience to better inform our policy making process."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• The Liberal Democrat Business Forum is hosting the small business dinner.