Jess Brown-Fuller Talks Business Over Breakfast

Jess Brown-Fuller, MP for Chichester, sat down with members of the Chichester Chamber of Commerce & Industry over breakfast at the Goodwood Hotel to discuss the challenges of doing business in the current economic climate. 

Speaking to business leaders and entrepreneurs from the area, Jess talked about the challenges facing the country in the run-up to the 2025 Autumn Budget, potential opportunities for businesses during the devolution process in England, and the Liberal Democrat proposals for a fairer system to replace business rates and cut VAT in the hospitality sector. Jess also heard from businesses, who asked her about the planning system, council tax, and even her favourite ice cream flavour.  

In Chichester City, the percentage of empty shops is at around 7%, which is half of the national average (14%). However, rising costs, higher business rates, and staffing shortages continue to squeeze margins, especially for small independent businesses in and around Chichester. The Liberal Democrats recently called for an emergency VAT cut of 5% for pubs, restaurants, and hospitality venues to support these struggling businesses.  

Jess said: 

“Having previously run my own small business, I understand how all these additional costs – like business rates, new admin costs, and commercial rents – are posing an existential threat to our business environment. What the Government needs to do is to create a welcoming environment for business to drive new investment into this constituency, instead of nibbling at the edges.” 

“Businesses in Chichester are innovative, creative and keen to grow, but they need the Government support to do so.” 

“Together with Liberal Democrat colleagues, I am committed to this new 5% VAT cut, as well as a fairer system to replace this ailing Business Rates system, so Chichester’s economy can grow and flourish.” 

Jess Brown-Fuller Talks Business Over Breakfast