New taskforce promises to be 'voice of small businesses'

Some of the key membership organisations for small businesses are being brought together in a new taskforce promising to be the 'voice of small businesses' in the UK.

The new Small Business Taskforce, formed by Emma Jones of Enterprise Nation, has encouraged many members of the Forum of Private Business (FPB), the National Enterprise Network (NEN), the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE), the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Centre for Entrepreneurs (CFE).

These membership organisations combined reach almost two-million small firms - almost half of the entire SME population.

Jones has confirmed members of the FSB and the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) will also work closely with them on a case-by-case basis.

The lobbying group will champion the needs of UK small firms, while challenging Government and liaising with ministers to enable them to consult with the small business community prior to the introduction of new regulations.

Recent initiatives such as quarterly tax reporting have already caused significant concern within the small business community and Jones believes the taskforce will provide owners of small businesses with an empowering voice.

“We’re taking matters into our own hands. Entrepreneurs are the doers,” said Jones.

“We shouldn’t be waiting for Government to make the first move. This is a critical time for small businesses and they need a voice.”

The new Small Business Taskforce has already written an open letter to all Government ministers, including the Prime Minister, Theresa May, featuring five key recommendations:

• Continuing to support a flexible workforce including ensuring EU workers in the UK have long-term resident rights
• A workable tax regime created in consultation with SMEs
• Accessible business support
• International trade for all
• Consultation with small businesses

According to Jones, the taskforce “is prepared to help the Government work on fresh plans for what business support and procurement could look like in a post-Brexit world.

“We welcome the opportunity to work closely with Government to ensure the small business base of Britain can continue to prosper, delivering economic and social returns to our country.”





Image: Phil Dolby

Date published 9 Nov 2016 | Last updated 9 Nov 2016