MP's message to Uckfield business leaders

The London Olympics and The Queen’s Golden Jubilee can be a springboard for many businesses, Uckfield Chamber of Commerce members have been told.

Wealden MP Charles Hendry said next year’s two big events would put the UK in the global spotlight “as never before”.

He said visitors would be encouraged to go outside London and explore East Sussex “bringing business to our many excellent hotels, B&Bs and tourist attractions”.

Mr Hendry, speaking at the chamber of commerce’s annual dinner, welcomed steps to ease unemployment, and boost the economy.

Statistics show Wealden continues to have one of the lowest rates of unemployment in the whole of the UK, with 1.9 per cent of the population out of work.

The number of long-term unemployed, who have been without work for more than 12 months, has fallen from 140 to 115.

Mr Hendry highlighted announcements in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, to build a stronger and more balanced economy.

In addition, Mr Hendry welcomed the announcement that the Government is to explore if small businesses can be exempted from some of the onerous regulations that often hamper their growth.

He said: “I very much welcome these announcements. This extra funding and support will help to reduce burdens on smaller companies. The money for infrastructure will help bring forward badly needed programmes, where many local companies can look for contracts.”

He congratulated Uckfield Chamber of Commerce on its continued success, with more than 220 members and now one of the largest and most vibrant Chambers in the whole of Sussex.