Danny Chambers MP and Martin Tod launch local business survey

In advance of the government’s Budget announcement expected on 26th November, Danny Chambers MP for Winchester has joined forces with Liberal Democrat candidate for the Mayor of Hampshire - Martin Tod, who currently leads Winchester City Council, to consult small businesses across the region.

With data showing the UK economy has grown a mere 0.1% over the last quarter, many in the business community are questioning the government’s approach. The pair have launched a business survey to gather input from local businesses on ways to bolster the Hampshire economy.

Liberal Democrat Mayoral candidate Martin Tod said:
“Local businesses are the lifeblood of our city and our region – they do so much to make it distinctive and special. But times are tough: not just the challenges of the pandemic, Brexit and years of Conservative mismanagement, but also inflation and Labour’s national insurance increases.

The new Mayor won’t be able to fix every national policy, but If elected - I’d make sure we are investing in the right skills, expanding our transport network and improving business support to help our economy thrive – and the best way to get that plan right is by listening to what businesses have to say.”

Martin Tod says that if elected Mayor of Hampshire, he will use the Mayor’s new powers over skills, transport and regeneration to back local enterprise and help high streets thrive.

The most recent Winchester Business Barometer has shown the city bucking national trends with retail property vacancy rates at their lowest level since 2020 at just 2.3%, compared to a national average of 13.3%, and retail sales up 5% compared to 2024.

Danny Chambers MP for Winchester said:

“Winchester has been a haven of activity for small businesses, which really drives the strength of the economy. Since becoming an MP just over a year ago, I've already seen so many new businesses set up in the city and start to thrive. 

I’ve been speaking with lots of small businesses in the city as well as our farmers from across the Meon Valley. It's a testament to the community and city leadership that we've been able to create such a successful local economy despite the challenging circumstances the economy is facing. 

As we look ahead to the Budget, I want to bring the voice of local businesses to Parliament so we can demonstrate to this government how you really grow the economy. In my view, that's by supporting small businesses and farmers, helping them to thrive, not by making life harder for them with extra costs."

The survey is open to any businesses based within Hampshire, including sole traders, and can be completed here.