IS IT time for Ramsbottom to become a tech business hub?

James Frith believes it is.

During a recent visit to Ramsbottom-based company Dream Agility, the Bury North MP set out his vision to develop the area into a place suited for new or growing business.

Mr Frith's visit to the advertising technology company based in Market Place was to discuss the living wage, something he is keen to promote in the constituency and in Parliament.

Dream Agility is already a Living Wage employer and the staff gave Mr Frith a tour of their offices and he was able to set out his vision for Ramsbottom.

Elizabeth Clark, CEO of Dream Agility, said: "There is so much potential here, and if local companies continue to build and continue to strengthen their ties with the local education establishments there's no reason we can't have our own self-sufficient hub of talent here.

"It's encouraging to see James make the effort by coming down here to show how serious he is about supporting the growth of local businesses."

Speaking in the House of Commons on November 7, Mr Frith asked MP Margot James, parliamentary under-secretary for Business, Energy and Industrial strategy, what would be done to incentivise businesses to sign up as living wage employers.

He said: "Some sectors in the UK are better predisposed than others to paying higher wages, but the rising cost of living applies to all."

Ms James said: "I applaud the work of the national Living Wage Foundation, but we have a crucial role to play in ensuring that Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs has the resources to enforce the minimum wage, where it needs enforcing.

"That is our priority, although obviously I respect the work of the Living Wage Foundation."