A survey conducted following last week’s General Election has revealed the priorities of Britain’s SMEs.
The Federation of Small Businesses polled 2327 firms and more than a third of respondents thought that a continued economic recovery should be the Number 1 priority for Prime Minister David Cameron.
Ten other issues that small businesses consider particularly important include reform of business rates, a reduced regulatory burden, better broadband and improved access to finance.
A simpler tax system and greater efforts to improve the employability of young people are also policies that firms are keen to see implemented as soon as possible.
Mike Cherry, the FSB’s national policy chairman, said: “This response from FSB members shows first and foremost businesses want stability and certainty.
“This requires putting public finances on a sound footing, and then for Ministers to give a comprehensive vision for how they will support enterprise followed by a clear timetable for when they will deliver it.
“Today’s wide ranging research sends a very clear message on what small businesses want from the new Government – a supportive, light touch tax and regulatory environment in which to grow their business, creating prosperity and jobs.
“We look forward to meeting with Ministers to discuss how we can help make this happen and continue to foster the economic conditions which allow enterprise to flourish.”
The news that one party has won an overall majority has been broadly welcomed by SMEs, more than half of whom are confident they will get practical support from the new government. However, uncertainty remains about the possible impact of a Tory pledge to hold an in/out referendum on EU membership in 2017.