Responding to the Treasury Select Committee’s latest Economic Impact of Coronavirus inquiry update, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) National Chairman Mike Cherry, said:
“The Government urgently needs to come forward with a road map to recovery and interventions to help those unable to access business support. Action before a pro-business Budget next month would mark a real statement of intent.
“Directors and the newly self-employed have suffered a torrid eleven months. The Treasury Committee has rightly and tirelessly made the case for them. It’s good to see politicians of all stripes highlighting our DISS proposal today, a proposal designed by leaders in the accounting field.
“The Government should use this Budget to install new measures to help all those within the business community who are overlooked. That includes thousands of suppliers which sell to retail, leisure and hospitality businesses but cannot access the rates relief or cash grants designed for these industries. Building support initiatives according to assessment of lost revenue, rather than property or sector, marks the way forward.
“Last year saw the biggest drop in UK GDP in modern history. We now need the most pro-business Budget in modern history to overcome the damage done. The Government’s plan for jobs will only succeed with the right plan for the small business owners, sole traders and directors who will spur our recovery.”
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About FSB
As the UK’s largest business support group, FSB is the voice of the UK’s small businesses and the self-employed. Established over 40 years ago to help its members succeed in business, FSB is a non-profit making and non-party political organisation that’s led by its members, for its members. As the UK’s leading business campaigner, FSB is focused on delivering change which supports smaller businesses to grow and succeed.
FSB offers members a wide range of vital business services, including access to finance, business banking, legal advice and support along with a powerful voice in Government. Each year FSB also runs the UK’s Celebrating Small Business Awards. More information is available at www.fsb.org.uk. You can follow us on twitter @fsb_policy and on Instagram @fsb_uk.