Big names set for Blackpool federation's business event

The Squires Gate organisation will have Secretary of State for Business, Greg Clark MP and Leader of the Opposition Jeremy Corbyn MP at its National Business Show and Conference 2017 next month.

They are expected to set out their rival visions on the importance of small businesses to the economy, as the UK prepares to leave the EU.

There will also be a keynote speech from the leader of the biggest workers’ organisation, the TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady.

The event will be held in Torquay from March 23 to 25.

Greg Clark said: “We have worked closely with FSB over corporate governance reforms to boost the supply chain, action to tackle poor payments and better public procurement. Now I want to talk to the small business community as we consult on the industrial strategy, and so the conference could not come at a better time.”

Jeremy Corbyn said: “Labour backs small businesses and the self-employed right across the UK. They have been let down by this Government, which stands by as small businesses face rising costs, a late payment crisis, and poor infrastructure and broadband.”

Read: Federation hails self-employed