SMALL business owners will be able to question politicians ahead of the general election.

The Federation of Small Businesses is holding a hustings in Colchester on Tuesday, March 24.

Candidates will answer questions and listen to ideas from business owners on what the next government should do to support the economy.

All of the candidates standing in Colchester will be invited. The Essex Federation of Small Businesses has published its own business manifesto, outlining what it believes needs to be done to generate growth and create employment in their sector.

David Miles, chairman, said: “As a non-partisan organisation, we are inviting prospective parliamentary candidates across the political spectrum to explain their policies and to answer questions from business owners.

“The debate is likely to be lively and far reaching, and we look forward to welcoming candidates, Federation of Small Business members and other business owners to the hustings.”

Each candidate will have the chance to give a two-minute introduction speech, before the group takes questions from the floor.

The hustings will be held at Colchester Town Hall, from 7pm until 10pm.

It is one of five taking place in Essex, with others being held in Clacton, Harlow, Brentwood and Thurrock.

To book visit fsb.org.uk/essex