"SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES" SAYS LOCAL MSP

4.00.00pm GMT Sat 21st Feb 2009

North East Fife MSP Iain Smith has called for local people to support local shops and businesses throughout the constituency in order to help face down the current economic problems.

Speaking from the Cupar Farmer's Market today (Saturday) the local MSP who is also the Convener of the Scottish Parliament's influential Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee said:

"I am going round shops and businesses across North East Fife to gauge the impact the economic downturn is having locally. I hope to identify the state of the local economy and what actions the UK and Scottish Governments need to take to help get local businesses through this recession.

"It is clear from my discussions with business owners that there is a need for all of us to support our local shops and businesses. There are a huge variety of products and services available from them and in order to keep them alive we must use them more.

"This year is expected to be a very tough year for the economy and there are major concerns about the increase in unemployment that we have witnessed over recent months. Liberal Democrats have put economic recovery at the top of our agenda, and I will do all I can to ensure action is taken to support our local economy and businesses.