PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
SMALL SHOPS (20 March 2006)

That this House values the diversity and choice offered by small independent and local shops in the face of the growing dominance of national chains; recognises the increasing difficulties that small independent and local shops are facing with large rent rises in town centres and high streets; applauds the Evening Standard's Save our Small Shops campaign; encourages the public to make use of small, independent, local shops; condemns those landlords who raise rent excessively, letting only to chain stores; urges consideration of new business conservation areas that cap the number of chain stores; supports the proposal for small shop loyalty card schemes for every borough; and urges simplification of the regulation to which small shops are obliged to adhere.

Sponsored by:
Sir Vince Cable (Liberal Democrat)