MP calls for support for entrepreneurs after record number of new start-up businesses in the South Lakes

Local MP Tim Farron is calling on the Government to provide a package of support for new entrepreneurs after it was revealed that 2020 saw a record number of new businesses formed, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

New figures from the Centre for Entrepreneurs show that over 750,000 new companies were set up last year, a 13% increase on 2019.

In South Lakeland, 583 new businesses launched, which is the largest number of new firms in the district for the past 5 years.

The sectors which saw the biggest increases in new businesses were in manufacturing, agriculture and online retail.

Tim said: "This is unexpected but really positive news.

"The entrepreneurial spirit is very much alive in Britain today with so many people prepared to take a massive risk and start their business in the middle of a pandemic.

"These are the kind of people we need to lead our economic fightback once lockdown is over and so I'd like to see the Government providing coaching, mentoring and financial support so these businesses are able to flourish.

"This is the moment to back Britain's entrepreneurs".