LIB DEM MSP LAUNCHES AYRSHIRE BUSINESS SURVEY

3.30.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 30th Apr 2009

Jim Hume, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, has launched a small business survey across Ayrshire including the towns of Girvan, Troon and Ayr.

The survey also includes details of the Liberal Democrats' four point plan to tackle the credit crunch.

Jim Hume said:

"Small businesses are often at the heart of our communities and it's vital that they are given the support necessary to keep them going.

"But these businesses are facing real difficulties. Unlike larger organisations that might be able to absorb additional or unexpected costs, small businesses simply don't have the capacity to operate in that way so getting through a recession is in some respects even harder for the smaller retailer.

"That's why I've commissioned this survey which looks at the issues they face as a result of the recession.

"Local businesses have welcomed the survey. They have been telling me how they have been affected in a variety of ways. Some businesses have already closed whilst others have put expansion plans on hold until the worst of the recession is over.

"One common complaint is the banks' unwillingness to lend money which is causing unbearable pressure. Small business owners are frankly struggling to comprehend why an enormous government bail out using tax payers' money has not resulted in a flow of cash going to where it's most needed.

ENDS