I firmly believe that enterprising individuals and businesses create sustainable jobs. Over the last three years, I have made it a priority to engage with micro, small, medium and large businesses both in Nuneaton and in the surrounding area. I regularly support business events from campaigns organised by the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and the Coventry & Warwickshire branch of the Federation of Small Businesses.

Having spoken to many business people, I have translated the issues and concerns of the business community into my work in Westminster where I lobby on behalf of businesses both in the House of Commons chamber and in my other Parliamentary work.

In the constituency, I receive regular contact from business people who raise specific issues regarding organisations such as HMRC, UKTI, the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills and utility suppliers.

In Parliament, I have been pleased to support the Government's proposals to reduce Corporation Tax, freeze Fuel Duty, introduce measures to reduce the National Insurance Contributions businesses pay and the incentives offered to businesses to create apprenticeships.

Over the past few budgets, I have been delighted to secure help for businesses as a result of lobbying the Chancellor. In 2012, I led a delegation of MPs in the call to extend the research and development tax credit regime to boost manufacturing industries. With a group of fellow MPs, I also successfully lobbied for a change to the Empty Property Business Rate taxation system to encourage new commercial development.

Creating new jobs is vital and I will continue to work with business to achieve that aim.