EDEN MP Rory Stewart says he is seeking to develop a ‘simple mechanism’ which would enable Cumbrian savers to support the county’s small businesses.

Mr Stewart put forward the proposal as part of a cross-party initiative to encourage business growth and start-ups.

He has set up two online surveys, one for borrowers and one for investors, to identify the areas in which local businesses are being failed by existing financial provision.

Visit www.rorystewart.co.uk/cumbria-business-finance-network-surveys/