Liberal Euro-MPs launch strategy to boost small business
Originally published by East Midlands Liberal Democrats
LibDem MEP for the East Midlands Bill Newton Dunn has joined Liberal colleagues in the European Parliament to launch their EU-wide small business campaign.
The Alliance of Liberals and Democrats in the European Parliament (ALDE) sets out 22 concrete measures they will push for in their strategy to improve business conditions and create opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This will also help create local jobs and boost economic growth, given the clear role of SMEs as the engine of the European economy.
Europe's approximately 23 million SMEs make up to 99% of all businesses and provide two thirds of all jobs in the private sector. A study presented by the European Commission in January revealed that six in ten new jobs are created by small enterprises. More than half of the value creation of European companies is attributed to SMEs.
Newton Dunn threw his weight behind the campaign, saying:
"By taking steps to help small businesses in the East Midlands and all across Europe to flourish, prosper and grow, we will also help to create and safeguard jobs in the East Midlands.
"SMEs are the backbone of our economy in Europe, so we need to give them the support they need so they can lead us out of the crisis. That is why both existing and new rules, at European but also at national levels, must be subjected to an SME impact test to ensure that their specific needs are met and bureaucratic red tape is cut.
"I will be visiting and listening to local businesses and entrepreneurs in the East Midlands to learn more about what needs to be done to free potential, and to be able to give local micro-entities a strong voice at the European level. I hope many will seize the occasion to get in touch and share with me their ideas.
"I'm glad my Europe-wide alliance of Liberal parties has made SME policy one of its key priorities. Now let's all work together to put SMEs at the top of the political agenda across the EU."
The ALDE SME initiative has been strongly welcomed by the European business community.