21/04/05 - Cllr Justin Tomlinson Answers Questions On Business & Pensions

Cllr Justin Tomlinson Answers Evening Advertiser Questions On Business & Pensions

1. Is British Manufacturing in difficulty, as seen in the case of MG Rover's collapse this month, or in fact in a healthy condition - as seen by Honda's continued success?

Yes.  Since 1997, 1 million manufacturing jobs have been lost.  What has happened to Rover will be of great concern to many local residents who not only work directly for the car manufacturing industry, but also for companies in the supply chain.  Increased red tape and higher taxes are destroying businesses ability to compete in a global marketing.

2. We already have several nationally and internationally excellent companies in Swindon.  How would you attract more, and what types of firm should the town be looking to attract?

As an MP, I shall work extremely hard as an ambassador for Swindon.  I would work with big and small businesses, bringing them together with local bodies such as the Council.  We need to encourage a broad range of businesses to come to Swindon, catering for the skills of the local workforce.  We should also focus on existing local businesses, and help them to develop.  I run my own local business, so I know first hand the challenges that are faced.

3. How can we tackle the pensions deficit?  Can and would you legislate to get people to save?

We are facing a pensions time bomb.  The Conservatives will encourage people to invest in pensions by giving an additional £10 per £100 saved.  It is by encouraging people to save, that we can rebuild our pensions system that has been ruined by Labour.  Labour’s irresponsible £5 billion per year raid on pension funds has caused misery to millions of savers.

4. How would you help Swindon's town centre regeneration?  What is the most important aspect of regeneration plans for you?

As a local resident, I am extremely keen to see town centre regeneration.    The quality and diversity of shops is crucial.  To give Swindon more character, and therefore attract shoppers, we must support and protect the smaller, independent shops.  As a local resident who relies on Swindon Town centre, I will be a strong voice to make sure we get what is best for local residents, and not the development companies.

5. The biggest bugbear reported by business is 'red tape'.  Can the burden be reduced - or is red tape what stops crises such as a British version of Enron? 

Yes it can.  We will focus upon removing superfluous regulations, preventing the “gold plating” of EU regulations by Whitehall.  We will introduce sunset clauses to regulations wherever possible, and will grant exemptions to small businesses such as care homes.  An example of worrying red tape is the new Money Laundering Rules.  Although they are a useful tool in the fight against crime, they are causing chaos for many reputable businesses and need to be looked at.