Small Business Encouraged by Labour’s proposed support

28 January 2015
Media Release (For immediate release)

Small Business Encouraged by Labour’s proposed support

This morning in his state of the nation speech, Labour Leader, Andrew Little, promised to provide more support for small businesses. His comments have been praised by small business advocacy group Small Business Voice (SBV).

Our members are encouraged that Mr Little recognises that small business is the future of New Zealand," says SBV CEO, Max Whitehead. “We are, however, sceptical as we have heard encouraging words before from ministers and politicians, and nothing happens."

Mr Whitehead says that in the past, when it has come to the crunch, Cabinet has favoured big business or the unions, depending on who’s in power.

Mr Little proposes more support to small business through less form filling, more research and development tax breaks, and training, Mr Whitehead supports these things, but says Mr Little’s proposal to scrap the 90- day trial period for new starters would be a “step backwards."

“Despite some reservations, I do sense genuineness in Mr Little’s speech. We’re willing to work with any politician with a genuine desire to use small business growth to improve New Zealand,” says Mr Whitehead.

© Scoop Media