Jim Dobbin introduces Private Members Bill

Jim Dobbin MP

MP for Heywood and Middleton, Jim Dobbin has introduced a Private Members Bill that would make it a requirement for Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEP) to have at least one board member from a cooperative or social enterprise background.

The bill which was introduced in parliament on Tuesday 11 March was brought in due to concerns that LEPs lack the resources and expertise to support the specific needs of socially-led businesses.

In 2013, the Business Innnovation and Skills Select Committee raised concerns about the balance and diversity of businesses represented on the boards of LEPs, which it said “were too often skewed against community-owned businesses.” This view is supported by Mr Dobbin’s own contact with small and large co-operatives around the country, which say they need more support.

In his speech introducing the bill, Jim Dobbin said: “I have contacted many large and small co-operatives around the country during the development of my bill, and many have told me that they are currently struggling to engage with or understand the LEP process. As cooperators we passionately believe that the values and principles which underpin co-operatives and mutuals offer an alternative more ethical and democratic way for businesses to operate. We believe that all must be done to ensure a level playing field for their establishment and development.”

After the bill was read to members of parliament, Mr Dobbin said: “I was delighted to be able to present this bill with the history of our borough behind me. I am so proud of co-operatives and the legacy of Rochdale. I am doing all I can to highlight the significant contribution that co-operatives bring to local communities.”

LEPs were introduced by the coalition government to replace regional development agencies.