Member Article

Businesses weigh in to Council elections

The Federation of Small Businesses this week called on all candidates for the upcoming local elections to keep small businesses at the forefront of their policy and manifesto planning. The business organisation reminded councils that twelve million people are employed by small firms, that their taxes fund local authority activity and maintain vibrant high streets across the country. The FSB has published a manifesto for the elections which outlines how decisions at a local level can impact on small businesses and the self-employed.

Roger Culcheth, FSB Local Government Chairman, said: “Decisions taken by local authorities have a direct impact on everybody’s lives, including the livelihoods of small business owners and their employees. “In some areas local authorities and businesses have a close and effective relationship but in others small employers are treated as silent taxpayers with little voice in the future of their community. This is precisely why the FSB does not support any move to re-localise the setting of business rates.

“Local branches of the FSB across the country will be engaging with their prospective councillors. Our manifesto will ensure candidates from all parties get the message that thriving small businesses are vital to successful local communities. Untapped small business potential can be unleashed for the benefit of all through excellent two-way interaction with councils.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .