• Swindon & Wiltshire People
• Friday February 23 2024
• Author Name: Peter Davison

Wiltshire businesswoman Debbie Williams appointed to government’s Small Business Council

Wiltshire businesswoman Debbie Williams, co-founder of Chippenham-based John Williams Heating Services, has been appointed to the new government-led Small Business Council.

The Small Business Council, established as a voice of SMEs in government, held its first meeting yesterday (Thursday, February 23). Among the topics for discussion were finance and removing barriers to growth. The council brings together firms from a wide range of sectors including food & drink, trades, manufacturing and beauty.

Chaired by small business minister, Kevin Hollinrake, the Council will work alongside the PM’s Business Council to tackle key issues facing small firms who will be given new levels of access direct to government.

Debbie said: “I’m very humbled to be invited to be part of this initiative and I hope to be able to make clear the needs of small businesses at the highest level, reminding decision-makers how vital we are to every community in the UK as well as the national economy.”

The small business minister said: “Small firms are at the heart of our communities and the engine of our economy – which is why the work of this council is so important.

“My own experience of working in a small business has given me crucial insights to the problems that SMEs face on a daily basis, from barriers to growth or access to finance.

“We’re giving small firms a big voice, so they can directly air their concerns to government without delay – only when we work together can we tackle some of the burning issues SMEs are facing – only then can we help boost jobs and grow the economy.”

Almost every business in the country is a small business (99.9 per cent) who in turn support 27 million jobs across the UK, accounting for £4.5 trillion of annual turnover.

Almost every billion-pound company, tech giant or multinational corporation started off as small business, which is why this Council has been formed, to help support and nurture the next generation of small firms to thrive and grow.

The Council also includes small business organisations such as Small Business Britain, the Federation of Small Businesses and Family Business UK.

FSB policy chair Tina McKenzie said: “This new council is important because it will bring what’s happening at the front line of British business, from our 5.5 million small business owners, right into the heart of Government.

“Alongside No.10’s existing corporate Business Council, the new body will shine a light on the unique challenges small firms face on areas such as finance, regulation and skills. FSB is pleased to join it, and we hope to focus on how to reignite economic growth across our community.”

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