Q. Do you have any sympathy with the lorry drivers demonstrating over high fuel prices?

A. I have a lot of sympathy with the lorry drivers and the escalating fuel prices as I know the effect it has on my businesses and operating costs. When this is compared to the tax charged by other countries, I think we do get a bad deal.

The Government should have some sort of concession in place to encourage companies that employ people and save the outlay of benefits rather than crucify them in this way.


Q. With more oil from Iraq coming on stream, do you believe that that was the real reason that the country was invaded?

A. I don't believe that Iraq was invaded for the oil revenue alone, although I do believe that this must have been a factor in the operation.

The attacks on the Twin Towers would have been the deciding factor which opened the world's eyes to the threat of terrorism, which obviously had to be dealt with. The oil would have only helped to fund the terror organisations. So, I would say that it all had a part to play.


Q. With local firm Peter Brotherhood being sold to a US company, how optimistic are you about the future independence of UK businesses?

A. The future independence is dependant upon the actual marketplace the business trades in and businesses sometimes have to adjust accordingly.

I do not know a great deal about the operation of Peter Brotherhood, but would say that the directors have made the choice to sell for reasons known to them for the benefit of their company and their future plans.

Time would be the factor on this move to see if the company and its employees benefit.

It may turn out a better, stronger company which expands, employing more people. Who knows?


Q. How do you see the future employment situation in the Greater Peterborough area as the credit crunch worsens?

A. The employment in Greater Peterborough will obviously be affected with the credit crunch starting to take hold and businesses starting to cut costs.

Recessions are never a good thing for business in all sectors, and only the ones that are careful and adjust early to the sales climate will be the ones who are able to survive.

I would say any businesses that do experience financial difficulties should be looking at reducing their costs and should also keep close communication with their accountants and banking team in order to avoid the loss of their business or accumulating large, unnecessary debt.