Speaking ahead of tonight’s indicative votes, National Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Mike Cherry said: “The current situation we find ourselves in can only be described as a complete failure of British politics that is now causing real harm to small firms. Small businesses are frustrated and disappointed.
“As these political games have played out, small firms have been the ones hurting. Uncertainty has seen many having to shell out money for stockpiling while others have seen their products pulled from bigger stores implementing Brexit contingency plans. This uncertainty needs to end and end now.
“We have heard a lot about what MPs don’t want but hopefully tonight, we might actually get an idea of what they do want. Small businesses have been crystal clear about what they want and the time has come for all politicians to step up and deliver it.
“First and foremost, politicians must continue to do all they can to stop a chaotic no deal Brexit which is an outcome that small firms, the Government and the country are simply not ready for. This scenario would lead to supply chain disruptions, customs chaos, loss of tariff free trade and easy access to crucial markets.
“Secondly, small businesses want the security of a sensible time-limited transition period that allows them to operate as they do now from our exit day. This will mean only one set of changes and will give them adequate time to prepare for that change.
“Lastly, whatever MPs vote for, it must guarantee as friction-free trade as possible. Small firms across the UK rely on the cheap, quick and easy flow of goods cross borders. It’s vital that these businesses can continue to trade this way.
“Parliament is in the driver’s seat now and small businesses expect them to work together to deliver a solution that secures a transition period, guarantees that frictionless trade can continue and most importantly, avoids a disastrous no deal Brexit.”