West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin joined a Malvern technology company for tea to discuss its stunning progress in the last 12 months. Harriett met with AuraQ’s Mike Clarke to get an update on the company’s plans for further growth and to offer her help. The MP first met with AuraQ when she held a dedicated surgery for small businesses to help them with business banking issues. Many of the large banks attended and after the meeting, Mike decided to switch his bank account to get a better deal. Harriett said: “I ran my business banking surgery to show local companies that it is possible to get a good deal by shopping around. “AuraQ was one of the companies which took my advice and moved its account. With the additional support that it was able to gain, it has grown rapidly. “The company had a handful of staff when we first met and now Mike employs more than 20 staff, largely thanks to the support than his new bank was able to offer to allow him to expand. “This a great lesson to all local businesses: make sure that your bank works well for you rather than the other way round. “The Government’s long-term economic plan is supporting businesses like Mike’s to grow and thrive and I am immensely proud of the strength of the entrepreneurial spirit across my constituency.” Photo: Mike Clarke takes tea with Harriett Baldwin MP.