Shadow Chancellor to set out alternative economic vision to small businesses in Glasgow

In a landmark address to a business audience in Scotland, Mr McDonnell will speak to more than 800 small business owners from across the UK.

Mr McDonnell said: “We are the party of wealth creators and small businesses.

“We now need nothing less than a radical break with the past, rewriting the rules of the economy. We need to tackle a failing banking system that does not provide the finance that small businesses need.

“I look forward to setting out our alternative version to FSB National Conference next week.”

Sandra Dexter, the FSB’s National Vice-Chair, said: “We’re pleased to welcome the opposition’s finance chief to our flagship event in Glasgow. Entrepreneurs from the four corners of the UK will be keen to hear Labour’s vision for supporting small business ambition.”

FSB’s National Conference and Expo is taking place on 17-19 March at the SECC in Glasgow with Scottish journalist Kirsty Wark hosting the event. Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson and Ofcom chief executive Sharon White will also address the event.

Attendees at the event will be able to attend expert seminar sessions looking at issues like cyber security, social media, skills development and new pension rules. Scottish entrepreneur Fraser Doherty – who founded his first business SuperJam at age just 14 – will also speak to the crowd.

For the first time, business owners who are not FSB members are being invited to attend for free.

Andy Willox, FSB’s Scottish policy convenor, said: “It doesn’t matter whether you started up ten years or ten minutes ago, to all of these people I say, you have to join the FSB.

“That’s why this year we’re throwing open the doors to our big event and inviting everyone who has an interest in small business issues to come along. We’ve been tickled pink by the response so far with more than 1000 people already reserving their place.

“Not only will you be able to hear from heavyweight political leaders like John McDonnell, you’ll get the benefit of a packed seminar programme and our largest ever business exhibition.”