Islwyn MP Chris Evans hosted a business breakfast at the Maes Manor, Blackwood, on Friday May 16 with Chris Leslie MP, Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury.
Mr Evans, who is Parliamentary Private Secretary to Mr Leslie, held the breakfast in conjunction with Barclays.
The bank’s Regional Director for Business Banking, Russell Young, welcomed business owners from across the constituency to participate in a lively discussion facilitated by Mr Evans and Mr Leslie.
Attendees included representatives from several Islwyn-based businesses including the Just Love Food Company which produces nut-free celebration cakes, Stately Albion which manufactures luxury leisure lodges and park homes, and Penrhiw Nursery.
A range of issues were brought up by business owners such as difficulties they have experienced accessing finance and finding skilled employees.
Speaking about the breakfast, Mr Evans said: “I am delighted that businesses in my constituency had the opportunity to raise their concerns with the Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury and Barclays. I was very pleased to hear that many businesses have experienced a boost in confidence since the beginning of this year due to an increase in demand.
“I was equally impressed to learn how so many businesses have benefited from the Welsh Government’s Jobs Growth Wales scheme.”