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Securing the UK’s future as the entrepreneurial hub of Europe depends on the government’s ability to acknowledge the views of the country’s entrepreneurs. That’s why Sajid Javid, secretary of state for business, innovation & skills, has launched the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Entrepreneurship.
The group aims to bridge the gap between entrepreneurs and politicians, ensuring that business leaders have their say. During its first year, the APPG will focus on four policy areas: enterprise education, export, female founders and tax reforms.
Over the next 12 months, the APPG will determine why British entrepreneurs punch below their weight when it comes to exports, why there are so few women-led businesses and how the UK’s educational system can equip students with the skills necessary to start businesses. The group will also look into how the current tax system can be reformed to encourage British entrepreneurship.
Driving these areas of focus is The Entrepreneurs Network, the think tank that will act as the APPG’s secretariat. A recent survey it conducted of UK entrepreneurs revealed that 85% believe lowering business taxes would have a positive effect on the country’s startup ecosystem. Meanwhile 79% and 78% of business leaders argued that lowering personal taxes and slashing UK business regulations respectively would be a positive move for entrepreneurs. Lastly, 74% felt that making it easier to hire skilled workers from overseas would boost their businesses.
Speaking at the launch, Javid revealed how proud he was to usher in the initiative. “I want to make Britain the best place to start and grow a business by backing entrepreneurs to drive forward our economy,” he said. “In an environment that encourages innovation and ideas, this government is championing ambition and creating jobs.”
Alan Mak, member of parliament and chair of the APPG for Entrepreneurship, added: “Britain is in a global race for success and we need to get to the future first. Our entrepreneurs play a vital role and I’m confident that our new parliamentary group can provide them with the backing – and strong voice – they deserve, in Westminster and beyond.
The fact entrepreneurs will finally be gaining the ear of policy makers is definitely something to celebrate. 
