Politicians sample life in a small firm

The state of the economy has been the main topic of discussion between small business owners and politicians taking part in a 'work experience' scheme.

Approximately 100 'Business Buddy' visits have been arranged by the Forum of Private Business. During the visits, politicians experience life at the firms and business owners are able to discuss the main barriers their businesses face.

Nearly 90 per cent of the business owners taking part in the scheme said that the state of the economy was a major issue they discussed with their local political representative, two thirds cited, 'local business issues' on their doorsteps as a leading topic of conversation and a similar number mentioned regulation in general. Further areas of concern included levels of taxation, health and safety regulation and workforce skills.

Other issues up for discussion were finance and banking, the cost of doing business and employment law, followed by the enforcement of legislation, tax simplification and pensions.

The Forum's Head of Campaigns, Jane Bennett said: "One of the biggest complaints entrepreneurs make is that the politicians who create the policies and pass the laws that affect them do not understand what it's like to run a business.

"Many MPs, MSPs and AMs have never owned a small business or even worked in one. Business Buddy aims to address this by giving elected representatives first-hand experience of life at small businesses within their constituencies, hopefully helping to build relationships that last."

Backing

The Prime Minister, David Cameron, and Small Business Minister Mark Prisk, who ran his own small business before entering Parliament, have backed the Business Buddy scheme.

In a letter supporting the initiative, Mr Cameron said: "The Coalition Government is committed to making the coming decade the most entrepreneurial and dynamic in Britain's history.

"To make this a reality, we need to understand the real issues that small businesses face on a day-to-day basis and use that information to help ensure that entrepreneurs are given every opportunity to successfully start and grow their businesses.

"I would encourage all members of Parliament to take advantage of this opportunity to find out what it is really like to run a small business and to gain a better understanding of the many issues faced by small businesses across the country."