Ukip MP Douglas Carswell’s reference to “defunct” HMV demonstrates a disconnect between the UK political scene and retail sector.

MP Douglas Carswell, in the news as Ukip’s first MP, hit a bum note at the weekend when he compared the Tories to “defunct” HMV.

His comments irritated HMV chairman Paul McGowan, and for good reason.

The revival of HMV under Hilco’s ownership has confounded critics who did indeed think that there was no room for it on the modern high street after its collapse last year. But it is back in the black.

Coincidentally Jessops, which hit the buffers the same month as HMV, has also been restored to profitability under entrepreneur Peter Jones.

Sadly it’s all too typical that many MPs fail to recognise the commercial verve that typifies UK retail.

The retail industry must pump up the political volume to be heard in the corridors of power.

  • Chris Brook-Carter, Editor-in-chief