Smaller shops in Carshalton and Wallington

3.51.15pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 7th Jun 2005

Tom Brake's statement in support of the smaller shops on the high streets of Carshalton and Wallington

I know many local residents value the high streets we have in Carshalton and Wallington. We have the familiar national chains alongside smaller shops which offer everything from used furniture to traditional cakes.

Smaller shops remain the lifeblood of our community and provide a vital service for local people, particularly those without transport.

But I am alarmed by predictions that Britain will have lost a third of its neighbourhood stores by 2010. That is why I fought so strongly against the closure of our local post offices, because post office closures have hastened the decline of local shopping parades in other parts of Britain.

So community pride is not enough - smaller shops need our patronage. I would urge anyone keen to ensure our community's local character and colour to shop locally.

I would also welcome any letters from local residents who would like to contribute to the debate about our high streets.