Small businesses play a critical role our local economy.

From independent retailers and cafés to manufacturers, creative studios and family-run firms, they are what give Stourbridge its character and keep our high streets alive.

When I speak to local businesses across Stourbridge, Brierley Hill, and Netherton, they tell me how tough things have been in recent years. The margins are tight and costs keep increasing.

In Labour’s 2024 manifesto, we promised root and branch reform of business rates. Business rates have long been criticised for being outdated and disconnected from the modern economy. High street businesses can end up paying disproportionately more than large online retailers, despite having far fewer resources at their disposal.

That is why I recently raised the issue with the Prime Minister during PMQs, pressing the Government to go further in supporting small businesses – not just pubs, important though they are, but the full range of small and medium-sized enterprises that power towns like ours.

In my question, I highlighted the reality facing many businesses on our high street: they want to grow but are being held back by a challenging tax and rates system.

Another challenge businesses have raised with me is energy prices.

One local business contacted me after being mis-sold a commercial energy contracts by brokers. They were locked into a three-year contract where they were paying more than double the market rate.

This is happening far too often. I raised this issue directly with the Energy Minister, Martin McCluskey, who promised that the government will strengthen the law to protect small businesses from these unscrupulous operators. 

Small businesses are not asking for special treatment. They are asking for robust legal protections, stability and the chance to compete on equal terms.

Stourbridge has a proud history of enterprise, from our world-famous glassmaking heritage to the innovative firms operating here today. We must protect that legacy and ensure the next generation of entrepreneurs can succeed.

I will continue to push for root and branch reform of business rates and for strengthened regulation of the energy market to support small businesses in Stourbridge, Brierley Hill, and Netherton.