How I Accidentally Met David Cameron
And advised him on government policy.
How I Accidentally Met David Cameron
As a small business owner based in Cardiff, it was an unexpected but wonderful surprise to be asked to provide cakes for the launch of the government initiative Start Up Britain, a touring bus where people can stop by and get advice on their own new businesses. Being the target audience for such a venture was one thing, but being asked to be part of the official team was very exciting. Even then I couldn't have predicted what was going to happen on the day.
The reason that my business, Hello And..., lent itself to what they were doing, was that as they travelled all over the country, they needed a way to reliably get consistent cakes delivered to every stop on their tour. Rather than being a baker myself, I run a network of bakers across the country, allowing companies to order cakes for where-ever they are having their event and know that they are guaranteed consistency whilst also getting their cakes made with love by someone local rather than having to go to a soulless supermarket chain or something. As it was, I arrived into the crown of people outside number 10, arms full of cupcakes (complete with a drawing of Mr Cameron's face on them), already excited just to be there but not expecting to get much of a look in. So imagine my shock when I was informed by one of the event organisers that the Prime Minister would like to have a chat with me personally!
With mere seconds to regain my composure I was ushered into a private meeting room with a handfull of other business owners and David Cameron! After sampling the cakes, which thankfully he loved, (whether that was to do with the fact that they had his face on I'm not sure!) I suddenly and bizarrely found myself thrust into the role of government advisor, as the PM questioned us on how the government could do more for small businesses! Having been a barrister in a past life I was used to being put on the spot, so despite this sudden and strange turn of events I managed to retain my composure enough to give what were hopefully some meaningful responses – including improving access to information that was already available, a suggestion that prompted Mr Cameron to go through the gov.uk website himself to see how difficult it was. We also got to chat about the possibility of creating a talent pool in order to better connect people with skills to small business owners who needed them.
As quickly as it had started, by brief stint as government advisor was over, as Mr Cameron had to leave and engage with the waiting crowd. Cupcakes were handed out and enjoyed, as, still mildly shell-shocked, a news crew came over to interview me about my experience. I'm not sure I'll be taking up a full-time position as an advisor any time soon, but it was great to see the government interacting so directly with the people affected by what they do. Time will tell if any of our suggestions are taken on board!
To find out more about when Start Up Britain are bringing free business advice and cupcakes to your town or city, click here.
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