It was great to be able to sponsor the Living Wage Reception in Parliament today and to have the opportunity to speak about an issue that I have worked on for several years and continue to feel passionately about. Ensuring that more employers pay a living wage is of fundamental importance, especially as we navigate a cost of living crisis, but also because a living wage protects the reputation of businesses and their retention of staff. I have 30 years of experience in business so I understand how tough the industry is, particularly during challenging times like this, however I believe that more businesses need to take the plunge and see the benefits of paying a living wage. If you would like to find out more about how your business can become a living wage employer, then please find the following link to the Living Wage Foundation’s website Living Wage Foundation | For the real cost of living.