Responding to the announcement that HS2 legislation has been given royal assent, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) National Chair Mike Cherry said:
“Getting the go-ahead for the next phase of HS2 marks a positive step forward in transforming the infrastructure small businesses rely on.
“Small businesses are a force to be reckoned with and they bring a dynamism to supply chains that corporates struggle to match. Giving them opportunities to work on this great project is vital to them and the local economies they drive forward. As they are placed under huge strain by lockdowns, HS2 contracts are helping small firms to survive, and create and sustain jobs.
“At a time where the UK economy is still reeling, it’s more important than ever to press ahead with infrastructure projects, to make sure that contracts are open to small businesses, and to make sure that large prime contractors pay firms in the supply chain on time.
“Our recovery from Covid-19 hinges on a solid transport system that can sustain our economy for the future, and HS2 sends a clear message that Britain is open for business.”
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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.