Co-operative businesses 250 years after Robert Owen

That this House notes that the UK co-operative movement has grown to a combined annual turnover of £38.2 billion and has increased by £340 million in the last year; notes that over 7,000 independent co-operatives in the UK are owned by over 14 million members and 241,714 employees; recognises the contribution of the co-operative sector in response to the national effort against the effects of the coronavirus pandemic; further recognises the role co-operatives can play in rebuilding the economy in the aftermath of the covid-19 crisis; notes that Co-operatives Fortnight takes place from 21 June until 4 July 2021; recognises that 2021 marks 250 years since the birth of Robert Owen and notes his contribution and legacy as the father of co-operation; and urges the Government to take steps to increase the size of the co-operative sector.