Co-operation provides an essential means to addressing many of the challenges and failings our economy faces by putting consumers, communities, customers, workers, and the environment first.

But too often the growth and development of the co-operative sector is hindered by a regulatory and legislative framework that is designed for privately owned businesses. We need to foster co-operative development by reviewing laws to level the playing field, introducing a duty to foster diversity of corporate form, providing finance and support for co-operative growth, and introducing a UK Marcora Law.

The Government should provide legislation that gives greater support to co-operatives to encourage growth and help double the size of the sector. Agree? Add your name.