Businesses in the New Forest will have the opportunity to put their questions to local MPs at a special Question Time event organised by New Forest Business Partnership.
The event, to be held at Hanger Farm Arts Centre on Friday 13 March, will allow local business owners to seek answers on matters relating to the economy, transportation, the environment and a range of other issues.
This year's panel will feature three local Members of Parliament representing each of the main political parties including Desmond Swayne (New Forest West - Conservative); Sandra Gidley (Romsey – Liberal Democrat) and Alan Whitehead (Southampton Test – Labour). In addition the panel will feature Editor in Chief of the Southern Daily Echo, Ian Murray. The event will be chaired by former BBC editor and reporter Chris Ware.
New Forest District Council's portfolio holder for employment, health and wellbeing Cllr Maureen Holding said: "This event allows businesses to ask senior local politicians questions on matters which affect the day to day running of their business. In the current economic climate it's more important than ever that decision makers understand the needs of small business and this event will provide an opportunity to communicate these views."
The event will start at 17:45, with coffee and registration from 17:15. The Question and Answer session will conclude with a local produce buffet and networking opportunity at 19:00.
The Question Time event is open to New Forest Business Partnership members and their guest although membership applications can be completed for free via the New Forest Business Partnership website at www.nfbp.org.uk. Pre-registration is essential. For further details or to book your place on this event contact Matt Callaghan on 023 8028 5371 or e-mail businesssupport@nfdc.gov.uk