Lancing’s own Bakkus Taproom and Store headed to Westminster last week, as owner Victoria Tripp joined Tom Rutland MP at a special reception for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from across the South East, hosted by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, at No. 11 Downing Street.
The event celebrated the vital role local businesses play in driving the regional and national economy.
It also gave Victoria and other SME owners the opportunity to speak directly with the Chancellor as she prepares to deliver her first Budget later this autumn.
Tom Rutland, Labour MP for East Worthing and Shoreham, said:
“Businesses like Bakkus are the beating heart of our local economy — creating jobs, boosting our high streets, and bringing people together over a glass or two of wine.
“This Government understands how important SMEs are to communities like ours, which is why it was fantastic to share the experiences and insights of a new Lancing business directly with the Chancellor ahead of the Budget.
“Bakkus, known for its fantastic wine, craft beer taproom and vibrant community spirit, was one of a select group of businesses invited to Downing Street — a recognition of its contribution to Lancing’s growing independent business scene.
“I’m looking forward to my next drink in Bakkus!”
Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, said:
“We are a pro-business government, and we know that SMEs are the beating heart of high streets, industrial estates and local economies across the country.
“That’s why we’re reforming business rates, have secured trade deals with the US, EU and India to boost exports of whisky, gin and other British products, and have seen interest rates cut five times since the election, benefiting businesses in every part of Britain.”