Simple single market access, an ability to hire the right people and continued, secure access to funding for key schemes are some of the essential requirements the small business community wishes to safeguard as Britain begins to renegotiate its relationship with the EU.
A clear regulatory framework for the future has also been called for, so that small business owners can successfully plan their route to growth in a time of uncertainty that could follow a vote to leave.
Chairman at the Federation of Businesses (FSB), Mike Cherry, outlined some of the priorities of small businesses while attending an emergency post-Brexit business summit, held by business secretary Sajid Javid, in Westminster on 28 June.
Cherry said: “At the summit, I stressed the need for immediate action to reassure small firms so they can continue to trade and do business.”
Reassuring his organisation’s members, Cherry went on to say: “When the negotiations start, FSB will be a constructive partner and a strong voice for small businesses, pushing for swift clarity on these crucial points.”
Assembling the heads of Britain’s leading trade associations as well as representatives from many of the UK’s largest sectors, including defence, oil and gas, food and drink, aerospace and the automotive sectors, the business secretary called for solidarity in the face of economic uncertainty whilst acknowledging the possibility of opportunities further down the road.
Javid reassured trade and industry figureheads that negotiations on Britain’s future relationship with the EU would be carried out in the interests of UK firms.
He said: “There are significant challenges ahead, but the economic success of the past few years means we’re better able to withstand the current market turbulence and work towards a better future.
“My objective now is to ensure that the negotiation of our future relationship with the EU is carried out in the interest of companies, investors, potential investors and workers. I want to do this hand in glove with business owners.”
Pledging to company owners that the government will continue to do all it can to minimise risk and offer support as negotiations continue, Javid added: “The UK remains open for business.”
Confused about what Brexit will mean for your firm? Read the Business Advice guide here.
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