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Business minister announces help for small businesses

The Government have announced plans for a new business lease will make it easier, quicker and cheaper for small businesses to move premises.

Business Minister Baroness Wilcox today launched The Small Business Lease which will help new and independent retailers.

The new business lease, which is free to download and use, was developed by the Royal Institution for Chartered Surveyors (RICS) with the British Retail Consortium and British Property Federation.

Baroness Wilcox said: “The initiative will make life simpler for independent retailers and other small businesses. Negotiating a lease for a shop or office should not be a daunting task. By using this new contract both landlord and tenant will know that they are agreeing fair terms that provide clarity for both sides.”

Paul Bagust, associate director, professional groups and forums at RICS said: “In simplifying the leasing process for landlords and small business tenants, we hope to support SMEs and provide a boost to the British high street in a time of decline - thereby contributing to overall UK economic productivity.”

The government will work with property professionals, landlords and the retail sector to raise awareness among small businesses in a bid to help them survive and prosper through tough economic times.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Francesca Dent .