East Devon’s independent parliamentary candidate has pledged to support the region’s ‘lifeblood’ traders and businesses if she is elected in May.
Claire Wright says that the Government ‘buddy’ system – which pairs MPs with business leaders - focuses on building relationships with big corporations, and neglects smaller companies.
She said: “All this confirms my long-held view that this government is only concerned with big business but it is the small and independently owned businesses and the self-employed who are the lifeblood of the economy here in East Devon.
“I have visited and talked to dozens of small companies across the constituency and the comment that I have heard most often is that they are ignored by government and all the big parties.”
Mrs Wright, who currently serves as a district and county representative for Ottery St Mary, said traders in the area faced challenges including business rates and expensive parking.
“I give all these small traders a promise,” she added. “If I am elected on May 7, I pledge I shall be your buddy and will campaign energetically on your behalf.”
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