Hounslow Chamber of Commerce really does make an effort to help these businesses in Hounslow and as you will see below the Chamber has formed strong relationships with local MPs.
There are a number of small businesses in Hounslow that are members of and participate with the Chamber of Commerce, a very proactive group who hold at least 3 networking events every month as well as seminars and other meetings to help the members
This is a great example of the Chamber's work:
Following the recent emergency budget on 22nd June, Hounslow Chamber was contacted by the office of Mary Macleod MP to gauge the reaction of small businesses to the budget A number of accountants among the membership were contacted. Antony Doggwiler, of Orchard Growth Partners, and also a newly appointed Committee member, then co-ordinated the Chamber's response. The following excerpt from Hansard shows Mary Macleod's defence of business in the House of Commons:
Mary Macleod MP: "However, let me tell Members what some of my constituents said to me when I spoke to them today. The chief executive of West London Business said: "Overall we feel that this is a pro-business Budget and we are pleased with it: a key element is the reduction in corporation tax which is positive for all businesses; 89% of businesses in our area have fewer than 10 employees so they will be happy with the relief on national insurance payments for small businesses. Whilst CGT has increased, these are welcome allowances for business."
I also spoke to Andrew (sic) Doggwiler of the Hounslow Chamber of Commerce. He said:
"It was a tough Budget with a lot of pain being shared around, aimed at reducing the public sector deficit and restoring the confidence of the international markets in the British economy. There are positives for business in terms of reduction in corporation tax rates, extension of the enterprise finance guarantee scheme and increase in the entrepreneurs' relief, which indicates that the Government are keen to promote business success. The Government must continue to find ways to support businesses, particularly small and medium-sized businesses, as their success is the best way of ensuring a sustainable economic recovery creating long-lasting jobs and wealth."
That is what businesses in the hearts of our constituencies are saying."
Mary Macleod (Conservative; Brentford and Isleworth) and Alan Keen (Labour; Feltham and Heston) between them represent Hounslow borough in Parliament. Hounslow Chamber had previously contacted both to both congratulate them on their election, and, to establish closer contact in order to work together for business and economic growth.
Hounslow Chamber of Commerce, the fastest growing business network in West London work tirelessly to support and represent members at all levels, something which Mary Macleod's office has singularly acknowledged in the House of Commons.
The Chamber is becoming the business voice of business in the area helping business grow by providing networking and marketing opportunities. They lobby on local business issues and have close contacts with West London Business and other business groups in the area. Hounslow Borough Council also acknowledges influence of the Chamber and consults them on matters that effect local businesses.
For further information please contact Sally Smith at Hounslow Chamber of Commerce, West Thames College, Spring Grove House, London Road, Isleworth TW7 4HS. Tel: 020 8326 6416. E-mail: info@hounslowchamber.org.uk
