Wiltshire businesses visit Westminster

On 14 May I met 21 FSB members from across Wiltshire at the Palace of Westminster for a visit arranged with support from Devizes MP Claire Perry.

The visit kicked off with a tour by Seth, who was only guiding for the third time, but who had an amazing knowledge of the building and the history of how our democracy has developed over the centuries. One highlight was the ‘New Dawn’ light sculpture by Mary Branson above the entrance to St Stephen’s Hall celebrating women’s right to vote. The most amazing sight though was of course the House of Lords where we were watched by staff in case we decided to sit down on one of the hallowed benches!

The tour was followed by an opportunity to question three local MPs – James Gray, John Glen and Michelle Donelan – on issues faced by Wiltshire small businesses. This wide ranging discussion covered a number of topics from ice cream vans to copyright law.

FSB is the UK’s leading business campaigner, focused on delivering change which supports smaller businesses to grow and succeed. This trip to Westminster was a superb opportunity for our members to voice their concerns face to face with local MPs.

Tickets to the public gallery rounded off the day. This provided an opportunity to watch a prisons’ debate with the new Minister of State for Prisons, Robert Buckland another Wiltshire MP.

A great experience for us all and as you can see from the photo the construction work all over the building was a stark reminder that the machinery of Westminster will soon need to relocate to allow substantial renovations to the Palace to occur. Apparently these will take around 10 years! No small job then. If you are thinking of visiting I'd do it soon or you may miss your chance.