Last night, I was invited to attend a meeting held by the local branch of the Federation of Small Businesses. At a time when the local economy is struggling to survive through the recession, it was heartening to meet over 30 local businessmen and women who were still working hard to generate new business in Bracknell and the surrounding area. Being from a family of small business, I fully understand the present difficulties of maintaining cash flows and finding new customers. I spoke about the Conservative Party’s pledges to reduce corporation tax to 25% (and 20% for small business), remove NI contributions on the first 10 employees for new business start-ups and the goal to place 25% of government contracts with SMEs (small medium enterprises). It was a pleasure to meet everyone and I left The Bull Pub in Bracknell Town with a positive belief that, despite the present government’s economic ignorance, local business owners have the drive and wherewithal to survive this tough recession.