ST HELENS Chamber has formed a Members Council to further empower it as the voice of local business on a local, regional and national level.

The chamber, which currently represents the interests of more than 900 members, will use the council to strengthen its lobbying and representation function.

It is intended that the new council will form the core of an effective structure through which members can raise the 'real' issues that impact on business. This will provide the chamber with the necessary mandate to continue to fight to protect the interests of local businesses.

Chamber chief executive, Kath Boullen said: "It is vitally important that the views of local business are carried to the heart of decision-making organisations both regionally and nationally. Our role is to ensure that the voice of St Helens businesses is heard and responded to, in order to create the best business conditions, provide the best opportunities and equip companies for the rapidly changing economic environment. The Members Council is another move to help to achieve that."

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