FSB demands “strong agenda for growth” from Hunt Martin McTague, National Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, has called on the Chancellor to “boost entrepreneurship and help small businesses” in his Spring Budget, arguing that the direction Jeremy Hunt takes will be “make or break” for many firms. He points out that the Government has yet to fulfil a 2019 manifesto pledge for a fundamental downward review of the business rates system, which he described as “an unfair tax before profits on small firms.” McTague wants to see business rates scrapped for firms in properties with a rateable value of up to £25,000 a year, paid for by a small increase to the multiplier on very large properties. Additionally, the FSB wants the persistent culture of late payment tackled, with audit committees given oversight of payment practices and details published within annual reports. “The result would be win-win: strength in corporate supply chains and a thriving small business community driving economic growth from the ground up.” Cuts to R&D tax relief should be reversed too, Mr McTague added. Motorsport businessess will be delighted with calls to boost the economy.