Graham Stuart MP backs ‘Support Our Small Shops’ campaign  

Saturday Market Beverley and Holderness MP, Graham Stuart, has added his support to the Conservative Party's ‘Support Our Small Shops' campaign, which aims to keep small shops at the heart of local communities.  Small shops are at the heart of our high streets and town centres. They offer diversity and choice and provide a personal service to their community. Yet in many communities these independent retailers are under threat. They face a rising burden of regulation and tax, a daily battle against crime and violence, and competition from the growth of out-of-town shopping centres. It is estimated 2,000 shops close every year.  Business rates are universally unpopular with small shops and businesses. They are often the third most significant overhead, and are fixed, regardless of how well or badly a business is doing. So in a recession, business rates can push a firm over...