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23 Oct 2025

Torbay MP hosts business ‘mini-summit’ to tackle challenges facing local SMEs

Steve Darling hears concerns over rising costs, anti-social behaviour and global competition at roundtable with Bay’s business leaders

Torbay MP hosts business ‘mini-summit’ to tackle challenges facing local SMEs

Steve Darling. Image: House of Commons

Torbay MP Steve Darling has hosted a ‘mini-summit’ to hear from Bay’s businesses about their latest challenges and concerns.

The roundtable event for SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) was held at the Mercure Hotel in Paignton. 

A wide range of small businesses attended, representing Torbay’s tourism sector, the growing photonics and manufacturing industry in the Bay, and other enterprises who play a key role in the local economy. 

Mr Darling said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for me to gain insight into the difficulties and obstacles facing SMEs, including the increase in NIC contributions (which we Liberal Democrats opposed), anti-social behaviour, and domestic and international competitors. 

“I will be taking the feedback to the Business and Trade Select Committee, and it will play a crucial role in shaping government policy. 

“I would like to extend my thanks to all the businesses, for the productive and collaborative conversation, and to the Mercure Hotel for hosting us.”

He added: “A special thanks goes to Matt Blay from Superb Media, who was crucial in bringing together Torbay’s technology cluster for this meeting.”

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