Government urged to 'take action' on Autumn Statement proposals

17 Jan 2012

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is calling on the Government to focus on implementing measures announced in the Autumn Statement, after new research revealed that confidence plummeted amongst small firms at the end of 2011.

The FSB's 'Voice of Small Business' Index,' which is based on 1,600 responses from firms across the UK, recorded a score of -24.5 – a fall of 15.2 points over the quarter.

With the UK economic outlook remaining gloomy, the lobby group is urging ministers to act on the policies announced in the Chancellor's Autumn Statement in November.

While the FSB welcomed the decision to introduce a new seed enterprise investment scheme for small firms, as well as proposed changes to the planning system, it warned that businesses must see ‘tangible actions’ from the Government.

'The message is clear – things are going to get worse before they get better. But, we are hopeful that as the inflationary pressures lessen in 2012, that businesses will become more confident,' commented FSB National Chairman, John Walker.

'There are some good policy proposals in the pipeline too. However, the Government needs to quickly put in place the actions that it has promised. Small firms have heard what the Government has to say but are still waiting to see implementation.

'We believe that must be the Government's priority: to make 2012 the year of doing, with the aim of creating a dynamic business landscape in which our entrepreneurs can grow and flourish.'