The impact and burden of government red tape on small businesses in Wales has been highlighted in talks organised by Welsh Conservative MEP Dr Kay Swinburne.
Business leaders met Dr Swinburne in Cardiff earlier today to discuss how, through action in the Assembly, at Westminster, and in Brussels, bureaucracy can be reduced to lessen the impact of the recession.
Current government regulation has meant that many small firms are finding themselves over-stretched, the meeting was told.
One of the key issues identified was how small and medium sized firms are struggling to survive due to the difficulty in accessing credit.
Dr Swinburne said:
“This business forum was especially useful as we heard a range of different perspectives on how the economic crisis and regulation had impacted organisations across Wales.
“SMEs are the backbone of any strong economy. It is vital we understand the ways in which we can support them, particularly in the current economic climate.
“We need to ensure SMEs have access to sufficient funding, access to public procurement opportunities, business support resources, and the right level information in order for them to thrive and weather the crisis.
“This is the only way we can ensure economic vitality and sustainable growth in Wales.
“It also is important SMEs continuously engage in politics since political decision have a direct impact on their daily lives.
“We need to ensure that all legislation whether from the EU, Westminster or WAG needs to be proportionate and subject to a small business test.
“Economic recovery should be business-led with a high level of support for SMEs.”
