Social Democrats offer Center Party rural business package

The Social Democrats’ proposal to the Centre Party includes measures to support rural businesses and communities, according to information obtained by SVT.

The party’s “total package” aims to improve the local business climate, including by restoring funding for business development in rural municipalities and simplifying rules for the tourism industry.

It also proposes a “rural development drive” to upgrade town centres, playgrounds, infrastructure and lighting. Other measures include increasing government agencies’ presence outside major cities and investigating a municipal tourism fee.

The package also aims to reduce red tape for businesses. It would task government agencies with simplifying rules and assessing how new regulations affect businesses in rural areas.

The Social Democrats and the Moderates have each submitted a “total package” to the Centre Party. Earlier on Saturday, Social Democratic leader Magdalena Andersson wrote in an opinion article in Expressen that her party wants to form a government with the Centre Party and the Green Party, with support from the Left Party.

Andersson wrote that if the Centre Party chooses the Social Democrats’ package, the Left Party has made clear it is ready to take part in negotiations. It is unclear whether that means the Left Party is willing to negotiate its demand regarding government participation. SVT said it was seeking comment from the party.