Senedd member becomes chair of small shops cross-party group

Montgomersyhire's Senedd Member has been elected chair of a cross-party Senedd group focussed on small shops.

Russell George MS was elected at an annual group meeting earlier this week.

At the meeting, the group discussed the important role of access to cash in local communities. The group's core purpose is to ensure that the voice of small shops is heard within the Welsh Parliament.
 
Members of the Association of Convenience Stores gave a presentation, representing thousands of local shops across the UK. During the session, they highlighted the current access to cash trends across the convenience store sector and its important role in local communities and businesses.  
 
A representative of the Financial Conduct Authority also joined the meeting to discuss the latest interventions to protect access to cash for rural communities and what this means for businesses across Wales.   
 
The group also heard from a postmaster, who shared his experience of running a Post Office in his local community and why cash is still important for his customers.
 
Mr George said: “As a former small shop owner myself, I was delighted to be elected as Chair of this Cross-party Group on Small Shops. I want to use this role to help advocate for local and small businesses and ensuring that their voices are heard. Access to cash is crucial for communities across Wales, especially in rural areas where many residents rely on cash transactions."
 
“We must work together to safeguard cash access, ensuring that the people of Wales can engage fully with their local economies and maintain the health of our high streets. I look forward to leading this group in promoting policies that support small shops and enhance financial inclusivity.”