MP lays down challenge to public sector - are you helping SME businesses?

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has laid down a challenge to the public sector and has asked them to look and see if they are doing everything they can to support small and medium sized enterprises.

Tim is asking that all public sector organisations publish contract opportunities and look at their processes to make sure they are making it easy for small businesses to apply for contracts with them.

Tim is also asking them to follow the Government's lead and produce a SME friendliness tool. This has been developed in consultation with representatives of small business to ensure the Government remains in touch with the reality of SME experiences in trying to engage and bid for contracts with Government.

He is also asking for clear guidance and support to be made available to allow businesses who have never applied for a major contact to get the help they might need.

Tim said: "The public sector is a key part of the South Lakes economy and I would like them to look at what they do and see if they can support even more local businesses. If we can make it easier for local businesses to apply for contracts, we can keep more investment in our community and create even more jobs in our area.

"I'm challenging the public sector to do everything they possibly can to support local business - they must be able to do more."