Struggling businesses call for hospitality help

BUSINESS SECRETARY DISCUSSED CHALLENGES FACING NIGHT-TIME SECTOR

- GURDOP THANDI

Business secretary Peter Kyle and West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker met with the Night Time Economy Commission

STRUGGLING night time businesses in the West Midlands have made a direct call to the Government for support in turning their fortunes around.

Business secretary Peter Kyle MP met with members of West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker's Night Time Economy Commission during a visit to the region.

He set out his plans for growth and support for the ailing sector as well as hearing concerns they have such as soaring costs and business rates.

Mr Parker set up the commission to understand problems faced by night time venues across the region and will receive a report with a series of recommendations on how he can support the industry in the new year.

The Mayor said the meeting with Mr Kyle, also attended by Birmingham City Council leader John Cotton and Wolverhampton councillor Chris Burden, who is chair of the commission, was "productive".