PARLIAMENTARIANS from Essex and East London have met with representatives of local small businesses to hear their concerns.Rayleigh MP Mark Francois chaired a meeting shortly before the House of Commons rose for the summer recess with a delegation from the Essex branch of the Federation of Small Businesses.

PARLIAMENTARIANS from Essex and East London have met with representatives of local small businesses to hear their concerns.

Rayleigh MP Mark Francois chaired a meeting shortly before the House of Commons rose for the summer recess with a delegation from the Essex branch of the Federation of Small Businesses.

The group made representations to the MPs on a number of issues, including levels of business taxation, transport links across the county, waste disposal and the general level of red tape and bureaucracy they faced.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Francois said: “It was good to have the opportunity to meet with the Essex Federation of Small Businesses in Westminster.

“These people are expert representatives of many of the small firms which contribute so much to the economy of our county.

“The FSB were well prepared for the meeting and put across their points constructively. I hope to remain in contact with them in the future.”