Stephen McPartland, Member of Parliament for Stevenage, was asked to sit in the hotseat and answer questions at an event held by local business group biz4biz which aims to give small businesses in Hertfordshire a coherent voice.

Stephen said, "It was a very interesting event and the range of questions was incredibly varied. I always enjoy the opportunity to listen to the concerns and ideas of local businesses which employ so many local people. The questioning is always challenging and I always give robust answers as a strong debate often leads to new ideas which I can then take up in Parliament with the relevant Ministers.

"There is also a great community spirit and at the end of the session £135 was raised for Giles Nursery and Infants School to buy the resources they need to create an outdoor biodiversity area for their pupils."

Adrian Hawkins, Co-Founder and Chairman of biz4Biz, said, "Our connections with many local MPs ensure that our members do not feel alone as they strive to build their business and employ more local people.

"Stephen has demonstrated great interest in the plight of local businesses over the years and his open and forthright responses to questions, truly help us all understand the prevailing international economic situation, affecting the UK today."

biz4biz is group of local business people aim to influence and shape policymaking and encourage investment in Hertfordshire by engaging with local and central government, relevant public sector bodies and local organisations to promote the county as a great place to live and do business.

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