News from Southampton Labour

Denham slams unfair treatment of Southampton buisinesses

John Denham has hit out at the Coalition Government’s decision to hinder business start-ups in Southampton – whilst new businesses starting in Bournemouth or other parts of Dorset will not have to pay National Insurance contributions on their employees firms in Southampton are being denied this assistance.

Mr Denham said: “The unemployment rate in Southampton is higher than in Dorset, so why are new businesses in the city being disadvantaged by the Tory-Lib Dem Government in this way?

“It is not clear that a National Insurance Holiday is the best way to encourage new businesses, but, as long as this is part of the Coalition Government’s plans, all parts of the country should be treated equally.”

Mr Denham made these remarks in response to a letter to him from the Federation of Small Businesses, urging him to press the Chancellor to rethink his policy.

Other news from Southampton Labour

• Water bills hiked as Southampton Council and Southern Water waste public money - 2 February 2012
• Southampton Labour MPs urge constituents to claim free heating and insulation help - 1 February 2012
• Welfare changes hit poorest areas in Southampton hardest - 1 February 2012