Tory MP scoops business-support award
Published On 17 May 2007 at 15:05:36
A Conservative MP has been named as the politician who has done the most to support the interests of the UK's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).Nigel Evans, who is the MP for Ribble Valley, won the award from the Forum of Private Businesses (FPB) after a panel of judges assessed the work of the seven shortlisted politicians.
"I was honoured and delighted to accept this award from my peers involved in smaller businesses," said Mr Evans, who runs his own SME while not in Westminster.
"It is important that our voice continues to be heard as we are an integral part of the business community."
Len Collinson, the national chairman of the FPB, echoed Mr Evans' sentiments, saying: "Owners and managers of smaller businesses play an integral part in the economy, creating wealth and job opportunities.
"Mr Evans has drawn upon his own experience of working in and owning a small business when representing not just his own constituents but businesses across the country. He is to be congratulated on his efforts."
Alex Pratt, a successful entrepreneur who was on the judging panel, used the opportunity to stress how important small businesses are to the UK economy.
"It is in everyone's interests to make sure our wealth creators thrive and prosper, because they foot the bill for everything we hold dear, from NHS incubators to our schools," he said.
"So isn't it great to have MPs who have seen this particular wavelength of the light?"
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