Kevin Tweedy and Rachel Reeves – photo supplied

Earlier this week Labour Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves MP visited Norwich, taking the opportunity to speak with voters before visiting local independent pub The Artichoke.

Rachel Reeves spoke with a number of voters concerned about the rising cost of living and the impact to communities in Norwich. Her visit to The Artichoke followed, with conversations with both landlord Kevin Tweedy and his team.

The Artichoke is an Accredited Living Wage Employer, providing secure employment despite the challenge of rising costs to the business. Kevin Tweedy said, “We’re proud to pay our staff a real living wage but the rising cost of living is affecting both our customers and our business. It was good to meet with Rachel and discuss our business concerns with a Labour MP who can make a difference in the future.”

Alan Waters, Leader of Norwich City Council, also had the opportunity to speak with Rachel about the successes of Norwich City Council as well as the challenges it faces. He said, “It was a real pleasure to meet with Rachel and discuss Labour’s work locally in tackling the growing cost of living for people and businesses in Norwich. As a Labour led council we are working to meet the immediate challenges as well as build a local economy over the longer term that works in the interest of all.”

Rachel Reeves said “It was great to visit Norwich and the Artichoke today. Providing a living wage makes a huge difference to people living through today’s cost of living crisis but businesses like the Artichoke are also struggling with rising costs. The government must do more to build a stronger and secure economy.”