Comment: why I am backing the Standard's campaign

It's not just that they bring character to local communities. Small shops are the lifeblood of local economies and provide a lifeline to local residents, and their survival is vital.

The problem today is that the Government doesn't seem to care. The rising burden of tax and regulation is forcing many of our local shops into the ground. And Labour now intend to remove the "needs test" from planning rules. This was crucial in safeguarding local shops, as it forced out-of-town shopping developments to show there was a real need for them in the area. With this gone, local shops will come under even more pressure.

It doesn't have to be like this. That's why the Conservative Party has backed the Evening Standard's Save our Small Shops campaign and published a report, Disappearing Britain, on how we can stand up for small shops. Much of this means local councils using their clout to keep these shops open.

We need less of Labour-controlled Hackney council, which sold off the freeholds on much-loved shops and cafés in Broadway Market to property developers. And more of Conservativecontrolled Wandsworth council, which took a landmark decision to support shops in Northcote Road near Clapham Junction after several longestablished businesses were forced out.

But this is not just a question of government action, national or local. We all have to play our part. That's why we're backing the Wedge card. Set up by Diana Bird, this reward scheme gives access to hundreds of great offers from independent traders.

When it comes to local shops it's simple: use them or lose them. If we care about our communities, and the independent retailers that give them their character, it's our responsibility to support them - with our cash.