Chelmsford Lib Dem Stephen Robinson and Nick Clegg MP out campaigning
The Liberal Democrats have pledged to back business right across the country. Commented Chelmsford Liberal Democrat Stephen Robinson, "For too long, Labour and Conservative governments have focused solely on the firms in one square mile in the City of London, while failing to support businesses across the country."
Launching 'Enterprise in a Fair Society', Lib Dem Leader Nick Clegg set out details of the proposals, including:
Launching the document while visiting start-up businesses in Warrington, Nick Clegg said:
"The Government has failed to force the banks to lend to viable British businesses and won't face up to the need to break up the big banks to protect the economy.
"Who would have thought that when the taxpayer stepped in to rescue the banks, we would now be funding takeovers like that of Cadbury by Kraft?
"The Liberal Democrats will stand up for strong British businesses by changing the takeover rules to protect them from the short-term speculation of hedge funds and restoring a public interest test."
Liberal Democrat Shadow Business Secretary John Thurso said:
"Following the banking collapse and the worst recession since the 1930s, the Liberal Democrats want to rebuild the economy very differently.
"We will create the conditions for a thriving, balanced and environmentally sustainable economy with jobs that last.
"Britain depends on successful profitable businesses to create the nation's wealth. Only the Liberal Democrats will give businesses the tools to get on with the job."
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