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Scottish Government not doing enough for the country’s SMEs says says Sir Tom Farmer

Sir Tom Farmer The Scottish Government isn’t doing enough to stand up for the country’s businesses and imposes too much red tape, according to one of Scotland’s leading entrepreneurs.

Speaking ahead of the New Start Scotland exhibition - Scotland’s largest business support exhibition (SECC, 27th & 28th March) – Sir Tom Farmer said the red tape imposed by the Scottish Government is a “stranglehold” on many businesses and should be stopped.

Sir Tom said: “The one difficulty that all businesses face is red tape. If I had one criticism of the Scottish Executive, it is that they don’t seem to be doing enough to stand up for business and reduce the amount of red tape that’s going on - it’s immense. It’s a stranglehold on many businesses as it’s unbelievable the rules and regulations which comes through, not only from the devolved government, but also from Westminster, and even more so, from the European Union. It’s about time someone stopped, had a good look at this and saw that this is not required.

“I do think that there has to be adequate controls imposed on companies and businesses - when there are not the adequate controls or checks, what we can see happening is what is currently happening to our financial world. Part of the reason for the downfall of the financial world was not enough adequate controls or checks by the people in authority. Some of the stuff that goes on is nonsense.”

Sir Tom is just one of the hundreds of business experts who will be on hand at New Start Scotland to provide vital information to those looking to start and grow their own business.

He added: “Running a successful business through 2009 is not going to be easy. The looming recession brings a new set of financial hurdles that can trip even the best run businesses. But it is not all bad news, opportunities for substantial growth exist for the companies who are best placed and best prepared to seize them. There has never been a more important time to get the right advice for your business.

“That's why I'm delighted to be involved with this year's New Start Scotland Exhibition. The vast range of free seminars, workshops, features and competitions offers you the perfect opportunity to get your business into shape not only to survive, but to prosper in coming months.”

Returning to the SECC on March 27th & 28th, New Start Scotland is gearing up for its fifth year and has pledged to provide support for those struggling to survive the economic downturn.

Event organiser Ceri Rogers said: “With unemployment rates topping 138,000 in Scotland, many people who have been made redundant and cannot secure a job feel launching their own business is the only opportunity open to them.

"This year's New Start Scotland is set to be even bigger than ever with 120 exhibitors and over 50 seminars and workshops. In just one day, entrepreneurs can get all the help and support they need to turn their business dreams into reality."

For free tickets or further information on New Start Scotland, visit www.newstartscotland.com or call 0800 634 3400.

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