SME4Labour brought together parliamentarians, business representatives and campaigners for a roundtable breakfast examining the rise of illicit activity on Britain’s high streets and the action needed to tackle so-called “dodgy shops”.

The discussion, held at Troia Southbank on 17 June, was led by Melanie Onn MP and Baggy Shanker MP. Participants explored the impact of illegal trading on legitimate small businesses, local communities and consumer safety, alongside the need for stronger enforcement and closer cooperation between government, councils, police and regulatory bodies.

The event provided an important opportunity for businesses and policymakers to exchange experiences and consider how enforcement agencies can be better equipped to shut down unlawful operators while supporting responsible high-street businesses.

SME4Labour will continue bringing together businesses, parliamentarians and other stakeholders to campaign for safer, fairer and more successful high streets across the country.

Photos from the roundtable are published below.