Small business group calls for focus on 'domestic agenda' in New Year message

02 Jan 2019

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has urged the government to re-focus on encouraging and supporting UK small businesses, rather than spending time on 'political infighting', in its New Year message.

Mike Cherry, FSB National Chairman, said: 'Small business owners tend to be an optimistic bunch. They are used to being nimble, adapting to circumstances and making the most of opportunities. They are creative and entrepreneurial.

'And yet as we head into 2019 small business confidence is on the floor, and desperately needs lifting'.

Highlighting the impact of the recent political turmoil surrounding Brexit, Mr Cherry called on the government to provide clear advice for businesses on how to comply with any new requirements. He stated: 'Adapting to whatever the new trading circumstances with the EU are will mean changing business procedures, taking valuable time out from running a business, and for many it will involve paying for external expertise'.

The FSB's New Year message also drew attention to other key issues affecting small businesses, including forthcoming legislative changes such as Making Tax Digital for VAT, the pressure on UK High Streets, and the issue of poor payment practices.