Mark Garnier met with local FSB Chairman Ken Wigfield to learn more about the activities of the FSB locally and to learn more about the specific problems affecting Wyre Forest. Across the country, 99.3% of businesses employ fewer than 50 people, with nearly half the population working for these small businesses. In Wyre Forest, about 85% of businesses employ fewer than 10 people.
The recession is hitting the country badly and Wyre Forest is not escaping the problems. With unemployment up 100% locally in the last year, Wyre Forest needs direction and help. Because Wyre Forest is represented at Westminster by a single issue, health-service focused MP, it is vital that the commercial economy in Wyre Forest is heard by the policy makers in Westminster, and that is why Mark’s role as Parliamentary Spokesman is so important.
“The main issues affecting people locally have moved. Of course the hospital is a big issue and I recognise the work done by our local independent MP was very valuable at the time.” Says Mark. “ But unemployment, personal debt, home repossessions, and other economic issues are at the forefront of what is affecting local residents right now.”