Telford and Wrekin election candidates quizzed on business funding
Youth unemployment, roads and rail, and funding for small businesses were among the topics covered as candidates for two Shropshire seats were grilled at a hustings event.
The Federation of Small Businesses hosted the hustings for candidates who are hoping to head for the House of Commons to represent The Wrekin and Telford in parliament.
Chaired by Shropshire Star business editor Thom Kennedy, the event saw panellists clash over ways to grow the Shropshire economy.
Of the Telford candidates, long-standing Labour MP David Wright and Conservative challenger Lucy Allan both spoke in support of HS2, while Green candidate Peter Hawkins and Ukip's Denis Allen found common ground in opposing the multi-billion pound scheme.
Liberal Democrat candidate Ian Croll was not present at the event.
Meanwhile, all five Wrekin candidates – Conservative Mark Pritchard, Labour's Katrina Gilman, Liberal Democrat Rod Keyes, Green Cath Edwards and Ukip's Jill Seymour – shared their views on the best way to help small businesses in the borough gain access to finance to help them expand.
Mr Wright said he supported cuts to business rates, while Mr Pritchard and Ms Gilman argued over whether a Labour government would increase corporation tax and National Insurance, and the future of Britain's railways.
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