The voice of small firms must be heard in the debate about business representation

Amid the fallout from the CBI controversy, it's vital that the needs of small businesses are remembered.

Following claims of misconduct and serious sexual assault at the business group, the government paused its engagement with the organisation and several large companies suspended their membership.

Rain Newton-Smith was appointed as the CBI's new director-general and a series of proposed changes to the group's culture and governance were announced. CBI members have today voted on the reforms with 93% backing the confidence motion.

The British Chambers of Commerce has also responded by launching a new business council with big organisations including Heathrow, BP and IHG Hotels among its founding members.

The representation of business

During the controversy, there has been much debate around how businesses are represented.

A lot of the discussion has focused on big businesses but at Enterprise Nation, we believe it's vital that smaller businesses, which make up the vast majority of all businesses in the UK, are also properly represented.

Emma Jones, founder of Enterprise Nation, said:

"We can't afford for small businesses to be left out in the cold, while business groups jostle for the big business membership subscriptions.

"Small businesses are vital to the economy and local communities. We have to ensure their voices continue to be heard now and when the business representation dust settles.

"There are dozens of groups that represent small businesses. We need to see them consolidate in a US-style Small Business Administration or a Business Assembly to ensure that businesses of all sizes get fair representation – not just those able to pay annual fees.

"Enterprise Nation is a membership organisation that has been fighting the corner for the smallest business community for more than 10 years. Membership is free and always will be."