Research from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) recently revealed that only 50% of small businesses in England\u2019s north back George Osborne\u2019s heavily publicised \u201cNorthern Powerhouse\u201d plan.<\/p>\n
The Chancellor has previously said that small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy, unveiling a number of devolution measures in the hope of generating economic growth in the north of England \u2013 including the introduction of a Greater Manchester Mayor \u2013 yet half of northern businesses have claimed that they do not support the initiative.<\/p>\n
The FSB\u2019s research has also revealed that the vast majority of small firms in the north are aware of the so-called “Northern Powerhouse” plan, but a fifth (21%) of those companies do not entirely understand Osborne\u2019s plan, and remain unclear what the concept could mean in practice.<\/p>\n
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy and their support is crucial to help build the Northern Powerhouse,” Osborne has previously argued.<\/p>\n
“It is less than two years since I first set out ambitious plans to make this a reality and it’s fantastic that so many small firms know about and support our plans. As this research recognises, our devolution revolution is already empowering local areas, in the most fundamental shake up of the way the country is governed in a generation.”<\/p>\n
The survey, of more than 3,000 FSB members, also found “significant support” across the UK, mainly in regard to increased local control over public spending, with 36% of businesses listing this as a priority. Clearly, Britons are polarised when it comes to Osborne\u2019s plans.<\/p>\n
FSB policy director, Mike Cherry, said: “The concept and goals of the Northern Powerhouse have gained widespread support and awareness among businesses across Northern England but we now need to see tangible delivery and results for this support to continue and grow.<\/p>\n
“Businesses want the ongoing political discussions about devolving powers to translate into real investment in the infrastructure northern businesses need. The way local authorities invest must reflect the priorities of local job-creating entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n
“Our research shows that firms want to see a focus on improved transport links, digital infrastructure and workforce skills. Continued support for the concept of the Northern Powerhouse from the business community will depend on delivery of these priorities.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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