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Gordon Browns new Business Council has come under fire from small and medium-sized business groups, who criticise the lack of SME representation.
The formation of the Business Council was announced by the prime minister earlier this year, with the aim to advise him "on issues that affect enterprise, business and the long-term productivity and competitiveness of the economy".
The advisory group held its inaugural meeting at Downing Street yesterday and was attended by leaders in UK business such as Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson, Tesco CEO Sir Terry Leahy and Sir Alan Sugar, founder of Amstrad.
Critics have highlighted the visible absence of SME company directors and representatives of the UKs thousands of small businesses.
The Forum of Private Business (FPB) said small firms are left to rely on the governments Small Business Forum which has far less influence than the new Council.
According to a recent survey of the FPBs members, 95 per cent said that the forum should have equal access, influence and contact.
Matt Hardman, campaigns manager at the FPB told Business Zone: "The argument that celebrities such as Sir Alan Sugar and Sir Richard Branson are still in touch with the interests of small entrepreneurs will not satisfy those who are struggling to build up their businesses now."
He added: "They clearly feel that their needs and opinions are being ignored by the government in favour of those of big business."
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