I have backed the introduction of a new law, dubbed 'Cadbury Law' which will protect successful companies from hostile, speculative share dealing.

The law, which Tory leader David Cameron has already dismissed, would shake up UK takeover rules and restrict the power of hedge funds and other short term investors in determining the outcome when a UK company is under a hostile offer. One of the suggestions for the law is to freeze voting rights of anyone who bought shares in a company during an offer period.

The Cadbury takeover left a sour taste and it's taught me that we need a new law to protect our successful companies from unwelcome bids. David Cameron has turned his back on Cadbury but I won't, it's my number one priority. I'm working with the key players and I've made contact with Kraft.

They own the company and I'm ready to work with them to protect our jobs and our future here at Bournville: that's all I really care about.