Here in Hitchin and across our villages, we are lucky to have so many thriving independent businesses that bring energy and character to the area. With Christmas shopping in full swing there has never been a better time to shop local. Whether it's stopping for a coffee at Rose's in Shefford or the Coffee Lab in Hitchin, or a bite to eat at Sukawatee or Bombay Bites in the market – (I recommend the samosa chaat!) – these businesses form the heart of our towns and villages. They provide so much more than the goods and services on offer, giving a sense of community and identity to our high streets. 

But despite the resilience of our local area, small businesses have faced mounting challenges in recent years. The last government saw our high streets hollowed out, with closures and vacant units in town centres across the country stark reminders of the pressure on independent businesses. Pressures on energy bills, competition from online retailers, and an outdated business rates system are just some of the hurdles that local business owners tell me they are battling against daily.  

The new government recognises the crucial role small businesses play in sustaining our towns and communities. That's why I'm proud that they've listened to the challenges business owners face and put forward a comprehensive plan to support independent businesses and reinvigorate our high streets.  

At the core of Labour's approach is the abolition of a business rates system that is not fit for purpose. This archaic tax has long had a disproportionate impact on our high streets, penalising brick-and-mortar shops while online giants thrive. Replacing it with a fairer system will help level the playing field, bringing shoppers back to the high street and allowing local businesses to compete and flourish.  

Empty units are not just a missed opportunity; they can drag down the appeal of a high street. That's why our plan empowers councils to take over empty premises, ensuring they can be put back into productive use quickly by new businesses and start-ups. These spaces could become homes for new businesses, community hubs, or pop-up initiatives, breathing new life into deserted high streets. 

I know from speaking to residents that access to cash is a lifeline for many, particularly small businesses that rely on cash transactions. Labour's commitment to guaranteeing face-to-face banking in every community will provide the support businesses need to manage their finances and plan for growth, rolling out hundreds more baking hubs right across the country.  

While this government has had to take tough decisions to bring stability back to our economy, Labour are committed to backing small businesses through protective measures such as doubling employment allowance – ensuring small businesses can hire more staff on good wages without paying a penny in national insurance, and half of business will see no increase (or a reduction) in their NI bill overall. 

It has been tough going for small business for too long. Labour knows that economic growth happens on the high street, and I always be a champion for supporting our local area to thrive as a hub for retail, hospitality and more, through the festive season and beyond.