READER picture gazette-news.co.uk/readerpics AS a Frinton small shop keeper, the news of yet another closure, together with the reasons given, comes as no surprise whatsoever.

Clarksons has been around since 1906, my own business since 1949.

The problems of running a small business, such as a shoe shop, is very similar to our own operation and many others.

Are there any councillors or Members of Parliament interested in supporting the small business sector?

Please step forward!

We all urgently need massive reductions in business rates, a system of capping energy prices by law, free and easy parking for our customers, without the fear of the Gestapo-type parking attendants charging the council’s grossly inflated penalties for not moving on within the prescribed time.

We also urgently need legislation to prevent greedy landlords from raising rents above the rate of inflation, and most importantly, reductions in the employment and discrimination regulations which makes it difficult for small businesses to take on extra staff.

As I popped into my local council office this week, with one month’s rates instalment of £512, I came out thinking to myself, this together with national insurance contributions for staff, holidays with pay, and other taxes, now represents more than 10 per cent of our gross profit!

After all the other overheads are taken into account, it is no surprise many businesses are calling it a day.

Keith Paxon
Paxons Furnishers
Old Road, Frinton