New internet trade body wins MP backing

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has said that the launch of Britain's first trade body for internet firms in Cumbria will boost the county's economy.

Tim met Adrian Quine, Executive Director of BritORA - the British Online Retailing Association - today to discuss issues affecting small online businesses in Cumbria and across the UK.

Tim also signed BritORA's postcard agreeing that businesses across the whole of the UK need a superfast broadband network.

BritORA's vision is to build the most influential community of successful online businesses in the UK - engaging with local enterprise, helping them to grow, developing best practices and providing a network of support for each other. Members of BritORA will have access to a range of add-on services including online accreditations such as 'Safe Internet Shopping' and 'Safe Delivery'. Basic membership is free allowing members to choose what services they would like to add on such as, free legal advice, full business and legal, tax and VAT insurance protection and industry accreditations.

The group, based in Lazonby, near Penrith, will support small and medium sized enterprises with an online presence and those who want to develop one.

Tim said: "This is an excellent initiative which will champion the growth of online business in Cumbria and other rural areas. This is good for our local economy, the wider rural economy, and the UK economy as a whole."

Adrian Quine added "We understand that in these tight economic times keeping costs down is all important which is why we have launched a basic free membership package. While the internet knows no bounds, its growth potential is enormous but understanding how best to take advantage of it can be a minefield. BritORA is here to help its members tap into this new and exciting market"