Supporting local manufacturing businesses

This week in Parliament, I raised concerns with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero about the impact of high energy costs on local businesses.  

I highlighted a third-generation manufacturing company that invested in a solar-powered, energy-efficient site to cut emissions and boost productivity, yet now faces sharply rising operating costs. Their business rates have jumped from £130,000 to £573,000 a year, and high industrial energy prices are limiting their ability to invest and compete. 

At a recent Business Breakfast, many small and medium sized firms shared similar worries, describing energy costs as one of the biggest barriers to growth. The Liberal Democrats believe that businesses driving clean growth need fair conditions to succeed, including reformed business rates, lower industrial electricity costs and long-term certainty. 

Local firms are not seeking handouts—they want a stable environment that supports investment, jobs and the transition to net zero. I therefore pressed the Government on discussions with the Chancellor about reducing industrial energy and related policy costs. Guildford is home to ambitious, innovative companies that contribute significantly to our economy, and I will continue pushing for practical solutions that help them thrive.

Watch my speech