Northampton MPs Lucy Rigby and Mike Reader joined business leaders at the University of Northampton for a powerful and purposeful ‘Meet the MPs’ event, organised by the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce with a clear outcome….. the future is about engagement.

Newly elected MPs Lucy Rigby KC (Northampton North) and Mike Reader (Northampton South) engaged with local businesses offering honesty, openness, and a genuine willingness to listen to the voices of the business community with key issues such as tax, connectivity, skills and education raised in a lively and constructive atmosphere.

Attendees raised vital questions around support, representation, and collaboration across Northamptonshire with a strong message emerging: businesses must share their stories, challenges, and successes with policymakers to help shape future decisions. Both MPs urged the business community to provide facts, figures, and feedback to influence national thinking and ensure local voices are heard.

Head of Policy for the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce Simon Cox said “By coming together, we were able to discuss business matters with the elected MPs for Northampton as well as highlight the importance of the Quarterly Economic Survey, which feeds directly into government discussions. Business owners were encouraged to participate actively to ensure their experiences help shape future support.”

“As the local economy faces new challenges and opportunities, events like these are crucial for building a stronger, more resilient future.”

“I’d like to thank both Lucy and Mike for their willingness and openness in answering questions, spending the time with local businesses and look forward to further engagement particularly around specific subjects which will be announced in the future.”

MP for Northampton North Lucy Rigby said “It was fantastic to engage with so many businesses from across Northampton. Listening to and answering questions from industries including law, logistics, education and tech provided a real insight into what businesses want to see by way of support from Government and the issues affecting the commercial environment at the moment. I’m grateful to Simon and the Chamber of Commerce for organising such an engaging event.”

and this was echoed by MP for Northampton South Mike Reader who added “It’s extremely important for me to have a personal connection with local business to better understand the issues they’re facing. This is why events like this are vital. I’m grateful to the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce for organising this event and allowing us to have this first-hand experience. Lucy and I are committed to supporting our local economy and ensuring prosperity across Northampton.”

Kevin Rogers, Chair of leading regional law firm and Platinum Chamber Partners Wilson Browne Solicitors said “Whilst always interesting, these are more than just ‘nice chats’. Lucy and Mike shared key strategies for business engagement, reinforcing the Chamber’s commitment to collective growth. We are truly #strongertogether and we look forward to even more engagement to support growth.”

Ashley Gallagher, owner of website design agency Oynk, a partner of the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce said “As a new business, having access to local MPs is vital, especially when you are working in an under represented area such as Digital Sustainability. Getting a chance to speak to Mike Reader MP, who is on the Net Zero Committee, really helped me alert him about this serious issue.”

The Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce will continue to engage on behalf of its members with Members of Parliament to ensure the voice of business is heard.

For further information on the latest Quarterly Economic Survey, visit the Policy section of the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce website here.