Skip to main content

Written question asked by Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 May 2026. It was answered by Chris McDonald (Labour) on Tuesday, 19 May 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade.


Small Businesses: Energy

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to support small businesses facing rising energy prices.

Answer

The United Kingdom has a diverse and resilient energy system. The government is monitoring the impacts of the situation in the Middle East, including small businesses, and engaging with industry to understand the full picture.

Alongside existing measures to reduce electricity costs for energy-intensive industries, the government is supporting small businesses through cutting unnecessary regulatory burdens, tackling late payments, and modernising tax and customs systems to make them simpler and cheaper.

The Business Growth Service provides a first port of call for businesses with access to practical help to navigate current economic pressures, while building resilience and long‑term growth capability.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
129
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Energy Government assistance Prices Small businesses
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk