LOCAL MEP ANSWERS CALLS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES (Fiona Hall MEP)

Fiona Hall MEP <info@fionahall.org.uk>

LOCAL MEP ANSWERS CALLS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

June 20, 2008 12:00 AM

Fiona Hall MEP for the North East of England has responded to a call from the North East branch of the Federation of Small Businesses by backing a European written declaration which requests the implementation of proper support for small and medium enterprises (SME) within the Small Business Act, currently going through the European Parliament.

The written declaration asks that in future policy makers 'think small first' by drafting business measures and legislation from the starting point of smaller enterprises.

Fiona believes SMEs would be better supported by the business world and encourage their growth and development, as well as the EU's competitiveness, if this written declaration were to be adopted. This is important as recent statistics show that 49% of Europeans have never thought of setting up their own business* - almost double the American figure.

Fiona has said: "Small and innovative businesses are doing well in the North East. They have support from regional development agencies and are really allowed to develop their own identity.

"More defined legislation however would make sure that their contribution to the region's economy, development, innovation and social cohesion be protected."I have signed this written declaration to make sure that small and medium businesses can continue to do grow."

Commenting on Fiona's actions, Simon Hanson from the Federation of Small Business said:

"Small businesses spend around seven hours per week dealing with administrative burdens and this package of proposals offers a golden opportunity for Brussels to become more aware of how its rules and regulations can prevent small businesses in the North East from expanding.

"We urge all our local MEPs to send a clear signal to EU governments and the European Commission that this package should deliver tangible benefits to small businesses, rather than just pay lip service to them."