ACS

14 April 2010

Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg launched their election manifesto this morning, with many pledges that could affect local shops including minimum wage commitments and a pledge to make small business rate relief automatic.

The Liberal Democrat Manifesto claims that ‘its time for something different, its time for somtheing better’. The vision in for fundamental structural changes in the way the country works to make it fair.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “On many issues, like competition and planning, the Liberal Democrats have been long-standing supporters of local shops, and this manifesto reflects their established policies in these areas, which we welcome.

“Retailers will be less impressed with the pledge to apply the National Minimum Wage to every worker over 16. Convenience store staff under 18 are bound to be less productive simply because they cannot sell alcohol themselves. It is dangerous when political announcements cut across the expert opinions of bodies like the Low Pay Commission, which has consistently recommended minimum wage rate differentials based on age.

“It is good that the Liberal Democrats have recognised problems associated with rates and regulation. However we need to see more detail and practical steps taken before we are convinced that these cost burdens on retailers would be reduced if the Liberal Democrats formed part of the next Government.”
 

For a full breakdown of the Liberal Democrat manifesto, along with analysis on the impact for local shops, go to the Election Centre