Backing Business to Create Economic Growth

Debate between Kirsteen Sullivan and Lillian Jones

Monday 18th May 2026 Commons Chamber

[Kirsteen Sullivan]

We have just heard mention of the very ambitious Government plan for investment in national infrastructure. Does my hon. Friend agree that we must consider the safety of workers in our procurement contracts and include inclusive personal protective equipment in any specification for public sector procurement going forward?

[Lillian Jones]

I agree. Health and safety should be written into public procurement contracts as standard.

Finally, economic growth is about not only national strategy but the small businesses and entrepreneurs driving our local economies at home in our communities. On the day of State Opening, I was delighted to welcome to Westminster my constituent Elaine Borland, founder of Kilmarnock-based Blowin’ Free Gin, whose premium small-batch Agronomist gin is the very best of local produce and innovation—it is available to try now in the Strangers Bar. Businesses such as hers are exactly what we should be championing, and I welcome the Government’s commitment to supporting them through exports and by promoting British excellence.

I welcome the direction set out in the King’s Speech, but I urge the Government to go further and faster: recognise strategic industries, back British supply chains, use procurement to strengthen domestic manufacturing and ensure that growth reaches every nation and region in our country. When we back British industry, support local enterprise and invest in resilient supply chains we do more than grow the economy; we create skilled jobs, strengthen the communities we serve and build a more secure future, giving hope to our great nation.