Ranil Jayawardena attended an event held by the Federation of Small Businesses this week. The FSB have been supporting small businesses in the UK for over 40 years. Their aim is to ensure that the UK recognises, values and adequately rewards the endeavours of both those who are self-employed and who own small businesses. The event was the first major small business gathering since the General Election and gave MPs the chance to talk to small businesses about what they can do to help.
The reception came as the FSB's latest ‘Voice of Small Business Index' shows that small businesses are in a robust mood amid record levels of confidence across the UK. Confidence has picked up markedly in the second quarter, with growth and investment intentions reaching new heights since the Index began in 2010.
Ranil said: ‘I enjoyed talking to Sajid Javid and Anna Soubry about the importance of small buisnesses. They are a vital part of our communities in North East Hampshire and across the UK. That’s why I want to work with the them and the Federation of Small Businesses to ensure that we can support them in every way possible. Last year I got involved with Small Business Saturday, and I’m looking forward to doing the same this year.’
Sajid Javid, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, said: ‘Britain is the jobs factory of Europe – and small businesses are the power plants that make it all possible. We want to make this country the best place in the world to start and grow a business, so we can continue to create those jobs and support people who want to work hard and get on.’
John Allan, National Chairman, Federation of Small Businesses, said: ‘I was delighted to see Ranil on Monday, and for them to learn more about how to help our small firms, and so drive the ex online recovery. Policymakers now need to focus and support business growth, and we look forward to working with MPs on this agenda.’