THE Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has welcomed the pledge on the greatest possible access to single market.

Responding to UK Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit speech laying out her 12-point plan, Brian Woods, the FSB’s Surrey and West Sussex regional chairman, said:?“We wanted to see the Prime Minister begin to sketch out a pro-business Brexit by addressing trade, talent and transitional arrangements.

“Ninety-three per cent of our members export directly to the single market. Our members want to see this bold and ambitious free-trade agreement so that they can continue to trade and operate within European markets.

“However, we will push the Government to guarantee whatever transition process is put in place ensures there is no cliff edge or gap in trade.

“One-in-five (21 per cent) FSB members export. This could be doubled with the right tailored small business support from the Department for International Trade, along with new free-trade agreements with the fastest growing markets in the world. Global trade will only flourish if the free-trade agreements prevent additional barriers, such as cost and paperwork.”

According to Mr Woods, small employers will welcome the pledge to maintain the UK as a true magnet for international talent.

And they have pressed the government hard to guarantee the right to remain for non-UK EU nationals in existing workforces, and no early cut-off date. Any future system must help small firms to easily recruit the right person, for the right job, at the right time.

“The Prime Minister’s other objectives show that there is a clear intention for transitional arrangements beyond the two-year fixed period,” continued Mr Woods.

“We welcome the legislative certainty that comes with the Great Repeal Bill, to maintain the regulatory framework in the medium-term by incorporating EU law into UK law.

“After that, the FSB will push government and parliament for the radical reform of the regulatory burden for small businesses.”

As the UK negotiating team assembles, evidence from the FSB’s Brexit research programme will inform their work. FSB’s job will be to make sure the voice of UK small business is heard in all these areas.