News July 2007
Technology Sales and Marketing Coach, Terry Forsey shares his views on the new regime.
The old DTI came under attack from the Opposition for wasting money, particularly in relation to its small business support schemes. So the new Prime Minister has reorganised the departments and it seems that this action is generally welcomed, but business leaders are keen to learn the impact of these changes.
The new Department will still cover a vast range of topics, from support for small business to world trade talks and UK energy policy it will also contain the existing Better Regulation Unit, therefore pulling together the various facets of the business provision.
But what I do not see in Mr Brown's thinking is the support for an environment that will allow small businesses to become more competitive. The PM is keen to cultivate closer links with the business community by naming a high-level business advisory council to liaise with the government - this mirrors some old Brown thinking from his first Budget in 1998 when he announced; A new advisory panel comprising business and management was established to come up with ways of making them do so, with the aim of cutting absenteeism in the public sector.
I do not see any Small Business representation in this advisory council in my opinion, an oversight that will severely impact on this vulnerable sector, especially as research shows that small firms account for more than twice as many new jobs as large ones and that small businesses prefer to turn to professionals rather than Business Link, Government (Central & Local) Enterprise Agencies and Development Agencies.
However, I do welcome the appointment of Rt Hon Stephen Timms MP as the Small Business Minister as it is essential that the voice of the small business is heard at the highest levels I hope that Mr Timms will ensure fairplay and equality for all.
For more information call 01536 771440 or email, terry@forsey.info.
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