Small Businesses Seek More Support

Nearly three quarters of Britain’s small business owners believe that the government could ‘do more’ to support them according to the Small Business Nation survey revealed today as part of Small Business Week.

In terms of the areas where state support could help, simplifying regulations topped the list (74%), closely followed by reducing business-related taxes (70%). Half of the businesses interviewed believed that government could offer greater incentives, while 32% wanted better advice and support provision.

Commenting on the survey, Stephen Timms, Minister of State, Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, said:

Small businesses employ over 10 million people – nearly half of the total private sector workforce – and contribute £967 billion to our economy. The increase in their numbers has been a big success for Britain in the last few years. We want to build on that now, and help today’s small businesses grow and take advantage of the new global markets.

Also released today is a report from Enterprise Nation which reveals that home-based businesses now contribute £364 billion to the annual economy.  The Home Business Report also highlights a ten point action plan targeted at areas where central government and other agencies could provide more support.