PETERBOROUGH-based members of the Federation of Small Businesses led the debates at the FSB National Conference in Aberdeen on March 19 and 20.

David Dexter, The FSB Lincolnshire region chairman, who is also the conference chairman said, “Local members have again demonstrated their complete understanding of small business problems by submitting two of the six resolutions debated in Aberdeen.”

“These resolutions called for an independent review of the inadequacies and inefficiencies of DEFRA in its treatment of farmers and for equal benefits for the self-employed who find themselves without income, as are enjoyed by employed persons.”

Rod Handford, vice-chairman of the FSB Lincolnshire Region, said, “This region always submits topical and relevant resolutions to help formulate future FSB policy that will help every self-employed person and small business owner.”

Scottish first minister Alex Salmond, the business secretary Lord Mandelson and Conservative leader David Cameron all attended the conference and heared first-hand the concerns of small business owners.

David Dexter added, “In view of the forthcoming general election, this FSB Conference could well influence the votes in many marginal constituencies where small business owners, their families and employees, hold the balance of votes.”