Companies often complain that politicians don't understand the business world, but Oxford East MP Andrew Smith rose to the challenge when he agreed to do 'work experience' at a Headington firm.

He joined the five-strong workforce at Leopard Press in Windmill Road, Headington, as part of a scheme by Forum of Private Business to give politicians a taste of the world of small business.

Boss Mike Nicholls said: "We had a little chat and he saw our equipment. We talked about employment law and he seemed interested in my idea that there should be a standard default contract for employees which would cover everything, but could be tailored to the individual situation."

After more debate about health and safety regulations, Mr Smith tried his hand at setting up a folding machine and checking the quality.

Mr Nicholls said: "He was very good."

So would he get a job at Leopard Press?

"It would depend on the rate. I might offer him an apprenticeship."

Mr Smith was also impressed. "I think it's a very good scheme. The real value is to gain an understanding of how small businesses work and their challenges in the current climate."

Mr Nicholls set up the digital print business in 1983 after leaving Oxford Polytechnic, and 11 years ago bought a litho print business in Stroud, Gloucestershire.

He said he had faced some tough challenges over the years, but was now "pretty busy" despite the recession.

"We have had to evolve to make sure our customers get what they want, and we get a lot of repeat business," he said.

Other MPs who took part in the Business Buddy scheme included Business Secretary Vince Cable and Green Party leader Caroline Lucas.

The forum is campaigning for the Government to tackle problems which prevent small businesses from growing.

Its head of campaigns, Jane Bennett, said: "It's all well and good for lobby groups like the forum to tell the Government about current issues facing small businesses, but there's no substitute for first-hand experience."