Small businesses across Hertsmere were backed by the MP during a debate.

MP for Hertsmere Oliver Dowden paid tribute to small businesses across the Borough as he introduced a debate on tax reporting for these businesses.

During the debate, Mr Dowden asked for clarification from the government as their proposals did not amount to quarterly tax returns, that users will be fully consulted and asked if systems could be properly tested.

Mr Dowden said: “Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, employing thousands of people and generating wealth and prosperity for our communities.

“This was demonstrated to me when I had the pleasure of speaking to more than 50 small business men and women in Borehamwood.

“Their businesses ranged from financial services to recruitment, to solicitors to digital marketing.

“These hard working people from all over Hertsmere demonstrate the energy and creativity to put their own careers and incomes on the line to build thriving businesses.

“There is understandable concern about any measures the government may introduce that could distract small business people from their already extremely demanding day to day work, through additional new regulations or costs.”

Mr Dowden also called for a commitment to proper availability of information, software and where necessary training for small businesses.

According to the latest figures from the Federation of Small Businesses, they account for 99 per cent of all private sector businesses with total employment of more than 15 million – more than 60 per cent of all private sector employment in the UK and a turnover of 1.8 trillion.