SMALL BUSINESSES

Early day motion 928, tabled 21 February 2007 by Brian Binley (Conservative). Signed by 85 members.

That this House believes that small and medium-sized businesses are vital to the future of the UK economy; recognises that they generate over half the UK's national wealth and private sector jobs; notes that the twin burdens of regulation and an over-complex tax system have worsened considerably since 1997; further notes the absence of an effective voice for small businesses in Government; regrets that entrepreneurial activity has declined for the last two years; and calls on all Ministers to recognise and include the needs of small businesses in all policy making and implementation.

Signatures by party: Conservative 69, Liberal Democrat 12, DUP 2, Plaid Cymru 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.