South-West Hertfordshire MP discusses local issues with Berkhamsted's chamber of Commerce

Members spoke to the MP about issues affecting businesses and the community
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The MP for South-West Hertfordshire met with Berkhamsted’s Chamber of Commerce (BDCC) last Friday to discuss issues of interest to the business and residential community.

Gagan Mohindra met members of Berkhamsted’s Chamber of Commerce committee at the socially-distanced meeting held in Berkhamsted’s Town Hall.

The members asked the MP about his views on several issues, including the effects of Covid-19 on local businesses, mental health and charities.

Simon Double hands over Racing Recovery Blueprint to Gagan MohindraSimon Double hands over Racing Recovery Blueprint to Gagan Mohindra
Simon Double hands over Racing Recovery Blueprint to Gagan Mohindra

Pedestrianisation of town High Streets was also raised as there are currently moves towards a possible pilot scheme to pedestrianise Berkhamsted High Street on Saturdays.

Committee member, Simon Double, who runs his own local racehorse syndication business, Solario Racing, had concerns about his industry as a result of the pandemic.

He said: "Mr Mohindra came to Berkhamsted to talk primarily to the town’s Chamber of Commerce but afforded me time to discuss concerns about the impact of owners not being allowed back on the racecourse in suitable numbers.

"If they leave the sport, this will have a detrimental effect on the economy and thousands of individuals’ livelihoods.

Gagan Mohindra metmembers of BerkhamstedsChamber of Commerce committee at the socially-distanced meetingGagan Mohindra metmembers of BerkhamstedsChamber of Commerce committee at the socially-distanced meeting
Gagan Mohindra metmembers of BerkhamstedsChamber of Commerce committee at the socially-distanced meeting

"Horse racing is not only the second biggest spectator sport in the country, it contributes £4 billion to the economy.

“I handed Mr Mohindra a personal letter and a copy of the recently published 'A Blueprint for Racehorse Ownership in the UK,' produced by two prominent racehorse owners, Jon Hughes and Ged Shields.

"This blueprint is an excellent summary of where we are in British racing and provides a two-stage plan for recovery as we come out of the Covid-19 crisis.”

Gagan Mohindra may be more of a cricket fan than a racing enthusiast but according to Double, he listened and seemed to understand the problems facing racing without owners in attendance at the track and the MP suggested they have a Zoom meeting to discuss the issue further.

Gagan said: "On Friday I had the pleasure to meet with members of the Berkhamsted Chamber of Commerce.

"I fielded a range of questions about local business issues, wider political subjects and my experience of being an MP.

"It was an open, lively meeting and I was pleased to be invited; by listening to one another and working together I know we can do the best for Berkhamsted and the whole of South West Herts."