Local Member of Parliament Bim Afolami arranged for four businesses from Hitchin & Harpenden to meet with himself and the Rt. Hon. John Glen MP, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, to discuss energy price challenges for businesses.
The businesspeople shared the impact of current energy price rises and other inflationary pressures with the Minister, with those with energy intensive companies noting the difficult situation that these rises (and any future increases) had left their businesses in. Market uncertainty on future energy prices has also impacted on their future plans for investment and growth. They emphasised the need for clarity on energy prices moving forwards to allow business to plan, invest and grow.
Bim Afolami MP said,
“Local businesses have told me about the challenges that they are facing with ongoing international energy price shocks continuing to impact us in Hitchin & Harpenden. We had a good, productive discussion with the Minister and I was pleased to be able to facilitate this for these local businesses. As well as bringing local employment and driving the prosperity of our area, a strong local economy brings a wealth of benefits to our communities in Hitchin, Harpenden and the villages and I will continue to do what I can to support businesses.
“It was promising to hear that the Government’s review will be concluded by the end of the year and that businesses will soon be able to get clarity to enable them to plan beyond the end of the current Energy Bill Relief Scheme. I was also pleased to hear that the Government is looking at sectoral support for those who most need it. As your local Member of Parliament and in my role on the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Select Committee I will continue to work with local businesses and Government to ensure the right support is in place to allow them to survive, thrive and grow our local economy.”
