Local MP challenged to sign Save Our Local Shops petition
May 7, 2007 11:42 AM
Martin Thompson is challenging Mark Field MP to sign the Save Our Local Shops petition
Local LibDem campaigner Martin Thompson is challenging Cities of London and Westminster MP Mark Field to sign the Save Our Local Shops petition. The petition aims at halting the opening of a new Tesco Express at the corner of Lisson Grove and Hayes Place.
He visited the House of Commons on 27 April to hand in a letter addressed to Mr Field.
Commenting, Martin said:
"I haven't heard from or read anything from Mr Field about the proposed new Tesco. This is despite the fact that the petition has now been featured in the local press, and the Evening Standard, and has attracted over 1,100 signatures. This is exactly the sort of issue that an MP should care about and help local people to campaign on.
"There are several Tescos already open and trading within a mile of the proposed site near Marylebone railway station. The new shop would, I believe, present a clear threat to the continuing financial viability of local independent shops. I wouldn't want to see those shops driven out of business by having to compete with such a multinational giant.
"There is clear local concern about this. Local Conservative councillors and the local Conservative MP have been silent, however. Perhaps they just think that their majorities are so big that they just don't have to care about this issue, or the people who feel so passionately about it.
"I have given Mr Field an entire petition sheet, so maybe he can drum up some support from local Conservatives. I do hope so."
Local people can sign the petition online at http://campaigns.libdems.org.uk/saveourlocalshops
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