Written question asked by Lord Evans of Watford (Labour) on Thursday, 23 November 2017, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 7 December 2017. It was answered by Lord Henley (Conservative) on Tuesday, 28 November 2017 on behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Small Businesses

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with representatives of small businesses to understand their needs and concerns regarding the impact of the UK's exit from the EU.

Answer: Ministers and officials have engaged extensively on EU exit with businesses, business groups and trade bodies across all regions of the UK. My rt. hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy has been meeting regularly with five of the biggest business groups, including the Federation for Small Business. We want to achieve the best possible outcome and the strongest possible partnership - one that works for UK businesses. We plan to be ambitious in these negotiations and will secure the best possible access for firms to trade with and operate in the European market.

Secondary information