Sevenoaks Business Show Awards 2017

Michael said wider society could learn from the values of small businesses in his address at the annual Sevenoaks Business Show Awards on Friday.

‘I support small businesses because they embody freedom and independence, individual responsibility and the principles of Meritocracy’, Michael said to an audience of local businesses.

‘In small businesses, you have a real stake in its success and the rewards gained are directly related to the effort that is invested.

Wider society has a lot to learn from small businesses.’

As Patron of the Sevenoaks Town Partnership, which organised the event, Michael spoke about the local economy, the achievements of local businesses and the support provided to small businesses by the Government.

He also highlighted the historic low unemployment levels and increasing number of enterprise startups in the constituency.

The full transcript of Michael’s speech can be found below.

 

 

Celebrating Local Enterprise                        15th September

[Introduction]

I am delighted to be here again at this great event as the Patron of Sevenoaks Town Partnership and to see so many businesses up for awards.

 

[Local successes]

Business is thriving in Sevenoaks in spite of the challenges we face.

Once again, I am delighted as your Member of Parliament to look back on a strong year for the town.

I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Sevenoaks Town Partnership,

Which is comprised of businesses and retailers,

Chamber of Commerce, Sevenoaks Town Council,

And the Sevenoaks Chronicle.

They play a crucial role in supporting local enterprise,

And we have seen the fruits of their hard work ripen.

Local businesses are continuing to grow,

Punching above their weight not only here in the UK…

But also selling across the world.

Were you aware, for example, of a business that develops off-grid renewable energy in rural Africa,

Based here in Sevenoaks?

Or of a business that stocks the House of Commons with its famous single-malt Scotch,

Whilst exporting vodka to Poland, gin to Europe, and Kosher whisky Israel,

Based here in Sevenoaks?

Children in Africa, who may know nothing about our country, nor understand our language, will know of Sevenoaks.

Many of the world’s leading figures, who purchase Parliament’s whisky as a souvenir for their friends and family back home, will know of Sevenoaks.

Our town continues to be the home of some of the most innovative and unique businesses in the country,

Most of them working out of small cabinets on our buzzing business parks.

Indeed, over 700 new enterprises have set their sights on success in Sevenoaks since 2010…

100 in the last two years…

That’s more than one business startup every week.

As more businesses begin and more enterprises expand,

There are more and more jobs to fill.

Local unemployment remains at a record low.

This puts the constituency in the top 50 out of 650 in the country.

That is something to be hugely proud of.

But it’s also something we can still work hard to improve.

Young people here now have a real choice when they finish their education.

With local business thriving, they can choose to work here,

Or, with connections to London improving, they can choose to work elsewhere.

Because Sevenoaks is not just a commuter town.

It is the birthplace of innovative businesses providing local employment, like yours.

 

[Government support]

Our successes locally can be attributed to the hard work and talent of local businesses and partnerships.

But our successes locally are not surprising when one considers the following:

The UK is already the fifth largest economy in the world, the biggest recipient of foreign investment in Europe, and the fastest growing economy in the G7.

I recognise that it is because of this success,

Both locally and nationally,

That many of you may be concerned about leaving the European Union.

As a businessman myself, I understand the pressures we face from uncertainty.

Rest assured, the Government’s top priority is securing the future of our businesses;

Especially the small and medium-sized businesses, like yours, that constitute 99 per cent of businesses in the UK.

Because this Government believes in small business.

With firms comprised of fewer than 200 employees responsible for around two fifths of our national income;

Employing 80 per cent of the total workforce;

And creating nearly half of all private sector turnover in the UK,

You are indispensable to the creation of jobs and of wealth.

I will do my part to champion businesses in Parliament,

Supporting the Government’s cut to business rates and corporation tax,

And our determination to regulate more efficiently.

But more needs to be done to cut red tape and ensure small businesses can export more easily.

I will also work to ensure that local enterprises have access to the funding and resources they need.

 

[Conclusion]

I support small businesses because they embody freedom and independence,

Individual responsibility;

And the principles of Meritocracy.

In small businesses, you have a real stake in its success,

And the rewards gained are directly related to the effort that is invested.

Wider society has a lot to learn from small businesses.

So I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all of you,

As well as offer my congratulations to those nominated:

For supporting our robust local economy,

For providing jobs for the next generation,

And for making Sevenoaks the best place for families anywhere in the country.

Thank you.

Sevenoaks MP praises local businesses ahead of sixth annual Sevenoaks Business Show

Michael has today praised local businesses ahead of the sixth annual Sevenoaks Business Show.

The local MP, who is also Patron of Sevenoaks Town Partnership, opened the fifth annual Sevenoaks Business Show last year, and will be meeting with a number of local businesses on his constituency visit this Friday.

Michael’s visit comes one week after new unemployment figures showed that Sevenoaks is among the constituencies with the lowest unemployment rate in the country.  The total number of unemployed claimants in Sevenoaks in March 2017 was 395, representing a decrease of 19 per cent since 2015 and of 67 per cent since 2010.

Michael said: ‘It’s a great time to be in business in Sevenoaks.  Unemployment remains at an historic low, more people are finding full time jobs, wages have grown yet again, and there are over 700 more businesses in Sevenoaks than there were in 2010.’

Michael Welcomes New Local Unemployment Figures

Sir Michael Fallon MP has welcomed new figures showing that unemployment in Sevenoaks remains at an historic low.

The figures, released by the Office National Statistics and Nomis database, show that unemployment in Sevenoaks has decreased by 63 per cent since 2010 and 11 per cent since May 2015.  Sevenoaks has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country.

Michael said: ‘These figures reflect a very robust local economy as we enter the Brexit negotiations.  A country that works for everyone enables people the security of employment and the ability to provide for their family.  I will continue to keep a close eye on our unemployment rates.’

Michael Welcomes New Unemployment Figures

Unemployment Jan 17Michael has welcomed the news that unemployment in Sevenoaks remains at historically low levels.

According to figures released by the Office for National Statistics, there were 385 claimants of unemployment benefit in Sevenoaks in December.  This puts the constituency among the constituencies with the lowest unemployment rates in the country.

The number of unemployed people has fallen by over 10% since the general election and over 60% since 2010.

Michael said: “This is welcome news that shows our local economy and jobs market remain reassuringly robust.  At a time of economic uncertainty, more people than ever before have the security of a pay packet and the ability to provide for their families.”

Column: Building On Our Achievements In 2017

In his latest column for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, Michael has written about the need to build on Sevenoaks’ progress this year:

2016 was a very successful year for Sevenoaks. In an unsettled year nationally, our local economy remained strong, with unemployment falling to another record low.

Though there will be challenges, I believe 2017 could be even better.

After so many years of campaigning, in September our new grammar school annexe will finally open. I visited the site just before Christmas and I could already see that it will be a great addition to the remarkable range of high-quality school choice that is now on offer in Sevenoaks. There is still more to do to secure grammar provision for boys, though, and that will be one of my top priorities this year.

Meanwhile, discussions on the new rail franchise will be a great opportunity to lobby for the extension of the Oyster network and the many other rail improvements we want to see. I look forward to continuing to make the case for passengers this year.

With an ageing population increasing pressure on the NHS and our care system, we need to continue to protect Sevenoaks Hospital. It is a much-loved feature of our town – but it also has an important role to play in relieving pressure on facilities at Pembury and Darent Valley. Carrying on making that argument will be vital this year.

Finally, we need to make sure the District Council develops a robust and reasonable Local Plan that will give us the homes we need without encouraging inappropriate development in our town and in our villages in the years to come.

With all of these priorities and more, I am looking forward to continuing to represent Sevenoaks this year. After a successful 2016, let’s build on our achievements in 2017

Christmas and New Year Message

Chamber Reception_14-7-16_082
Michael speaking at the Sevenoaks Chamber of Commerce Summer Reception.

In a sometimes unsettled year nationally, Sevenoaks, Swanley, Westerham and our villages have continued to go from strength to strength.  Unemployment remains at record low levels.  Our new grammar annexe is being constructed and will open next year.  Our local economy is vibrant and prosperous.

Building on this progress will require more work in the New Year.  Bringing fast broadband to all parts of the constituency is still a top priority.  We must also continue to work hard to protect our much-loved Green Belt from inappropriate development.  Most importantly, though, the spring will see consultation on the new rail franchise and I will use this opportunity to push for the extension of the Oyster network to Sevenoaks.

At the end of a successful year for Sevenoaks and Swanley, I would like to wish all of my constituents a very happy Christmas and New Year.  I am always proud to represent this constituency and I look forward to being as active as ever throughout the area in 2017.

Sir Michael Fallon MP

Column: We Needs to Give Our Young People the Skills to Succeed

In his latest column for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, Michael has written about helping young people to develop skills:

Last month, unemployment in Sevenoaks fell to its lowest recorded level.  Even more encouragingly, the level of youth unemployment in my constituency is now just one percent, down by over three quarters since 2010.

I am always impressed by the students I meet when I visit schools in Sevenoaks.  But academic achievement is only part of the story.  To maintain this employment record, our young people need to be given the chance to develop the skills and experiences that it takes to succeed.

Opportunities like National Citizen Service (NCS) are the best way to do that.  NCS has already enabled more than 200,000 teenagers, like those I’ve met from Sevenoaks, to take part in adventure challenges, skills development and social action.

Research has shown that nine out of ten participants find their experience worthwhile.  But it doesn’t just benefit them.  Getting involved is proven to make young people more likely to volunteer, more likely to vote, and more likely to be involved in their community.

Even on a smaller scale, opportunities like this can be found everywhere.

In June I visited Supajam, an innovative project in Swanley which is successfully helping teenagers who have struggled in formal education to learn about the music industry and through it to learn basic lessons in numeracy and literacy.  Instead of an uncertain future, the vast majority move into further education, employment or training when they leave.

Earlier this month I joined Westerham Sea Cadets for one of their regular boating sessions on Chipstead Lake.  The Sea Cadets offer practical training in the water and the confidence-building and self-esteem that comes with it, as well as valuable courses and certificates.

These opportunities are creating a new generation of well-rounded individuals with the skills they require to succeed.  But they also have huge social benefits – strengthening our communities now and into the future.

Unemployment in Sevenoaks Falls to Lowest Ever Level

unemployment jul 16Michael has welcomed new figures showing unemployment in Sevenoaks has fallen to its lowest recorded level.

Figures released today show that the total number of claimants in June was just 404, equivalent to 0.9 percent of the population.

Unemployment in Sevenoaks is now 10 percent lower than at the general election last year and over 60 percent lower than in May 2010.

Youth unemployment also fell to 65, almost 20 percent down on May last year and over 75 percent lower than it was in 2010.

Michael said: “This is great news.  More people in Sevenoaks than ever before now have the security of a pay packet and the ability to provide for their families.  There is always more to do but this news shows Sevenoaks is prepared for the economic challenges ahead.”

Annual Report 2015-16

Standing up for Sevenoaks and Swanley

oaks chamber of commerceLast May, I was honoured to be elected for the fifth time as your Member of Parliament.

Since the election, I have continued to work hard on behalf of all of my constituents. I hold two advice surgeries each month, as I have done consistently since 1997, and I regularly raise issues and concerns on your behalf. My Westminster office also deals with hundreds of emails and enquiries every week. I work closely with our county, district, town and parish councillors, as well as other organisations such as Kent Police, the Citizens Advice Bureau and West Kent Housing.

I remain closely involved in campaigns across Sevenoaks and Swanley. From fighting to save Hextable Dance Studio to defending Sevenoaks Hospital, I am proud to support my constituents and fight for our communities.

Supporting our local schools

Meeting pupils at Churchill Primary School in Westerham.
Meeting pupils at Churchill Primary School in Westerham.

I am a strong supporter of schools across my constituency. Since the election I have visited schools in Westerham, Sundridge, Swanley, Sevenoaks, and elsewhere to speak to pupils and answer their questions about my work as MP.

Winning our campaign to secure grammar school provision last October was probably my best ever day as your MP. This decision was long in coming but the priority now is to get this annexe built and open for local parents and pupils. My next goal is to secure grammar provision for boys and I am working on this.

Getting a better deal for commuters

Inspecting the work in progress at London Bridge Station
Inspecting the work at London Bridge Station.

Our ageing railways cause a huge amount of frustration for commuters and passen

gers. Disruption may be the price of the vital work at London Bridge – but passengers need to know why they are delayed and what is being done about it. I was concerned to learn on a recent train cab ride that drivers are often unable to inform passengers about ongoing disruption and slow running while their train is in operation. Making sure drivers and passengers have rapid, clear and sufficent information is essential. I will continue to raise these issues with Southeastern to make rail travel easier for my constituents.

Bringing Oyster to Sevenoaks was another promise I made at the general election. Rail passengers have waited long enough and I will be meeting the Rail Minister again shortly to push for a definite date.

Fighting for our NHS services

Michael with representatives from the hospital and Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Michael with representatives from the hospital and Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust.

I am committed to our local NHS. We need to see more services in Sevenoaks, not fewer. That’s why I have continued to defend Sevenoaks Hospital against the threat of closure. The withdrawal of some clinics was concerning but I have secured assurances that these vital services will continue to be available for local people.

Protecting GP services is also important. There is a review of GP provision underway and I will ensure the views of local people are fully represented. The NHS is so much more than the big district hospitals like Pembury and Darent Valley; it works best where it is local and loved.

Boosting our local economy

Michael Fallon Darent Wax tour
Michael visiting the Darent Wax Company.

The doctor prescribed me xanaxbest.com and assured that if I took it right before bedtime and went to bed on time than I would have a good sleep and wouldn’t experience any weakness in the morning, but only a good mood. And he was right, I strongly advise this drug to those who sleep poorly and hardly fall asleep.

In Sevenoaks and Swanley, our local economy is strong. Compared with 2010, there are 600 fewer people out of work, including 200 fewer young unemployed, and we have 600 more businesses. I see evidence of this progress on each of my regular constituency days. Since the election, I have visited businesses, shops and local sites throughout the constituency and I have more visits already planned for the next few months.

But there is still more to do to support our local economy. Broadband is a key issue that businesses and the Chamber of Commerce continue to raise with me. I have recently begun a fresh campaign to demand further action from BT. We need to make sure our local businesses and those who work from home have the broadband they need to thrive, wherever they are based.

Christmas and New Year Message

MF Sep 2012 (small)This has been a successful year for Sevenoaks and Swanley.  Unemployment in the constituency has continued to fall in the last twelve months from 492 to 435.  And we have had other very positive news too.

In particular, I welcome the Government’s decision to approve Weald of Kent Grammar School’s application to open an annexe in Sevenoaks.  This long-awaited decision will lead to more school places and more choice for local parents and pupils.  There must now be no further delay.

Of course, there is still more work to do.  From aircraft noise to local healthcare, I am committed to ensuring that the interests of my constituents are properly represented.  I also remain resolute in my desire to secure the extension of the Oyster network to Sevenoaks and I will be meeting with the relevant organisations in the spring to seek further progress towards this ambition.

I look forward to continuing to serve Sevenoaks and Swanley in Parliament in 2016.  I would like to wish all of my constituents a very happy Christmas and New Year.

Rt Hon Michael Fallon MP