SME support call as pressures mount Business groups are calling on the Government and the Prime Minister to deliver support for small businesses who face an uncertain future as soaring energy costs add to pressure brought about by the cost of living crisis. Martin McTague, chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses, warns: “Eye-watering energy bills could be the final nail in the coffin for many small businesses as they struggle to get through the winter.” UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls has stressed the need for support, saying: “More must be done to help businesses that are at risk of failure through no fault of their own,” adding: “Immediate Government intervention in the commercial energy market is essential.” Campaigners have suggested a number of measures they say could help, including cuts in VAT and business rates, an emergency energy grant for small businesses, and a reduction in National Insurance bills.