Responding to excerpts from the “build, build, build” speech to be delivered by the Prime Minister tomorrow, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) National Chairman Mike Cherry said:
“It’s encouraging to see the Government returning to its levelling-up agenda, an agenda made all the more important as we emerge from a recession. For too long the small business community has been blighted by regional disparities and creaking infrastructure. It’s good to see the first steps towards addressing these shortcomings – the focus on local roads and towns is welcome.
“Ensuring as many small businesses as possible are at the heart of efforts to deliver these new initiatives – including the self-employed – would go some way to getting the economy moving again.
“Today’s announcements will see increased investment in our communities via public procurement. If contractors bidding for government work can’t pay promptly then they shouldn’t be winning it.
“Those lucky enough to make successful procurement bids need to pay, pay, pay those further down supply chains on time, otherwise these new initiatives will be beset by delays and hardship for small business owners at an already challenging time. This New Deal should contain a fair deal for small firms.
“The Government should now honour its commitment for 33% of all central government procurement spend to reach small businesses, with a focus on social value. Small firms and their employees must not be locked out of the ambition to build, build, build because of cumbersome public sector procurement rules and practices.
“We look forward to the Chancellor’s intervention next week. As we emerge from this recession, it’s crucial that he makes a concerted effort to bring down employment costs, bolster consumer demand and upskill the next generation.
“We know that jobs will be under pressure, so we would like to see the Chancellor accelerate commitments contained in the Government’s Manifesto still further, in particular where reducing the jobs tax is concerned.”
Ends
Notes to Editors
1) Yesterday FSB launched its latest report on late payment, showing that more than 60% of firms have been subject to poor payment practice as a result of COVID-19 linked disruption.
2) The group’s recommendations for the Chancellor ahead of his speech next week can be accessed on the FSB website.
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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.