Government support for the Co-operative Sector

Thanks to everyone who came to the Westminster Hall Debate in Parliament about government support for the co-operative sector.

With 2025 being UN International Year of Co-operatives, it is right to celebrate the contribution of UK co-operative retail societies to local communities and national economic life which contributes an estimated £179.2 billion to the UK economy.

Here in Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton, co-operative heritage runs deep. We’ve always believed in the power of people coming together to take control, create good jobs, and build a fairer local economy. Whether it’s communities saving much-loved pubs, or co-ops giving workers a real say in the workplace, the difference is felt on our doorstep.

Yet still, too many people feel like no matter how hard they work, they still can’t get ahead, while the wealth their communities create is taken elsewhere. That’s why we have to double down, it’s time to return to co-operative principles: building together, sharing the rewards, and reinvesting locally.

The case is clear; if we want an inclusive, sustainable and resilient economy we have to deliver on our promise to double the size of the co-operative sector.

It’s a promising time for our movement!

Head to my Facebook page to see a clip from the debate.