Kevin Hollinrake MP, Chairman of the Conservative Party, visited Bexleyheath this week as part of a wider programme of engagement with communities and businesses across the country. The visit focused on the health of local high streets and the growing pressures facing small and medium-sized enterprises under the current Labour Government’s tax policies.
During his time in Bexleyheath, Mr Hollinrake met with a range of local businessmen and women, representing sectors from retail and hospitality to professional services. The discussion was frank and constructive, centring on the cumulative impact of rising taxes, increased national insurance contributions and mounting regulatory costs. Business owners spoke openly about shrinking margins, reduced investment and the difficult decisions many are now facing around staffing costs.
A recurring theme was the effect these pressures are having on the vitality of the high street. Traders described a noticeable higher operating costs often forcing price rises that customers are struggling to absorb. Several attendees warned that without a change in direction, more independent shops risk closure, further hollowing out town centres and damaging local economies.
Mr Hollinrake listened carefully to these concerns, emphasising the Conservative Party’s long-held belief that thriving businesses are the backbone of strong communities. He highlighted the importance of a competitive tax environment that encourages entrepreneurship, rewards hard work and allows firms to reinvest and grow. He also stressed that policy should support, rather than penalise, those who create jobs and contribute to local prosperity. In doing so he reflected on the Conservative Policy to abolish business rates for thousands of high street businesses.
The visit underlined the growing frustration among Bexleyheath’s business community and reinforced the message that this government’s economic policies are having a real, tangible consequences at a local level. As the Conservatives continue to engage with towns like Bexleyheath, the voices of high street businesses are set to play a central role in shaping the party’s economic priorities and its challenge to the Government’s approach.
Mr Hollinrake reassured the group that they are fortunate to have a well run Conservative council which continues to be wise when spending tax payers money, Bexley council is performing much better than some Labour run councils in London - this is something residents need to be proud of.
