1O DOWNING STREET LONDON SW1A 2AA
THE PRIME MINISTER
Small businesses are the driving force behind Britain’s communities, creating jobs, boosting the economy and giving people the services they need. I know that, and you know that. Your success is critical for delivering our Plan for Change and putting more money in people’s pockets. And you put your heart and soul into everything you do. So first off, let me say thank you. Those long days and the risks you take do not go unnoticed. They are a huge contribution to our country. We owe you a debt of gratitude. But I also know that running a small business is tough. We have had a decade of stop-start policy, with previous Governments letting red tape tie your hands. This Government is determined to remove the barriers that have held back Britain’s risktakers for too long. We want to breathe new life into our high streets, support traders, and businesses whether you are starting out or ready to grow. Already we have been creating the conditions for growth. We have stabilised the economy, laid the ground for four cuts in interest rates, and delivered three trade agreements and a modern industrial strategy all with small business at their heart. That’s why a few days ago, I was proud to stand with the Federation of Small Businesses’ Policy Chair, Tina McKenzie, to launch this Government’s Small Business Plan. The Plan is packed full of the tools you need to grow and the changes you want to see, designed by small businesses to boost small businesses. First, we are bringing in the strongest reforms in a generation to make sure small businesses are paid on time. And we are slashing red tape – cutting the admin costs of regulation by 25%, and modernising the tax and customs system to make it easier to use. Second, we are unlocking access to finance – with 69,000 more start up loans for small businesses and a £3 billion boost to the British Business Bank so more small businesses can invest and grow. Third, we are backing the everyday economy, with new hospitality zones fast-tracking permissions for things like outdoor dining, funding regeneration in 350 communities, and tackling crimes like shoplifting with 13,000 more police officers.