Trade tariffs the main worry as smaller companies say their Brexit concerns are being ignored

Alan Jones

Most smaller companies believe the UK government is ignoring their concerns on Brexit, according to a new report.

A survey of more than 650 owner-managed businesses showed only 41 which said ministers were listening to their views.

Accountants Moore Stephens said its study highlighted how much work was needed to convince small- to mediumsized companies that the deal to leave the European Union protects their interests. Trade tariffs was the main concern of those polled, followed by loss of EU labour and customers.

Mark Lamb, from Moore Stephens, said the research found the level of concern amongst business leaders over Brexit was “incredibly high”.

He added: “Whilst banks and other big businesses have the influence to lobby the government for their own special Brexit clauses, there are concerns that small businesses will be forgotten.

“Business owners are hugely concerned about what Brexit might mean for them. The government must take their needs seriously when negotiating the exit deal.

“Brexit could potentially impact an enormous number of issues affecting ownermanaged businesses in the UK from import and export costs to access to labour, and grants and subsidies.

“Businesses have been given very little clarity so far on what effect Brexit might have on any of these issues.”

Meanwhile, Labour will support remaining in a customs union with the EU after Brexit, Sir Keir Starmer has said. The shadow Brexit secretary warned it was now “crunch time” for Prime Minister Theresa May over her approach to the customs union.

He said it would be “better” to reach “bold” new trade agreements by working with the EU. Sir Keir said Labour had “long championed being in a customs union with the EU and the benefits”.

“Obviously it’s the only way realistically to get tariff-free access. It’s really important for our manufacturing base, and nobody can answer the question how you keep your commitment to no hard border in Northern Ireland without a customs union.”