Welsh Conservatives today called for a major boost to the Welsh economy by abolishing business rates for small businesses.
Nick Bourne (pictured), Leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the National Assembly, made the call on a visit to a greengrocer’s shop in Fairwater, Cardiff with Kay Swinburne, MEP for Wales, and candidate for Cardiff West, Cllr Craig Williams.
Nick Bourne said, “Vibrant small businesses are vital to the future of the Welsh economy.
“Under Labour, businesses have been burdened with excessive taxes, making it more difficult for many to survive challenging economic times.
“More than 10,000 businesses were forced to close their doors in 2009 because Labour-Plaid Ministers failed to take the measures our economy needs.
“Small businesses are especially important in our disadvantaged communities where they can offer much needed employment opportunities and help regenerate our town centres.
“By making Wales’ business rates regime more competitive, we can encourage business start-ups to raise employment prospects and boost prosperity.
“By abolishing business rates for small businesses we can support local economies across Wales by making Wales a more attractive place to invest and do business.”
Kay Swinburne said, “We want to see more of an entrepreneurial spirit develop in Wales, but at the moment Labour’s anti-small business policies are holding Wales’ economy back.
“We need to give would-be entrepreneurs the encouragement and incentives they need to take the plunge and set up their own business.
“A more balanced economy where people can set up their own business with minimised financial burdens will help make Wales a more prosperous nation.”
Candidate for Cardiff West, Cllr Craig Williams said, “We need to protect our high streets and local independent shops, which form the backbone of our capital’s economy.
“The Welsh Conservative commitment to abolish business rates will be a major boost to the economy of Cardiff and help struggling businesses to keep their doors open.”
