According to the findings of a new survey by XLN Telecom, SMEs including umbrella companies and recruitment agencies, do not think that a Tory victory at the next general election will result in a dramatic upsurge in business.
Almost 50% of those surveyed said they are pessimistic about the prospects of an economic swing in the next 12 months while less than 30% believe that a change in Westminster will make any difference to their business.
A staggering 90% of SMEs said that banks and financial institutions have not provided the support they required, particularly those whose businesses rely on a constant supply of credit such as recruiters and umbrella companies.
More than 15% of respondents said that they would consider taking on new employees over the coming 12 months, compared to less than 10% who are planning cut backs in their permanent workforce.
CEO of XLN Telecom, Christian Nellemann, said that the survey clearly demonstrates the ill feeling that SMEs have towards the political parties and the banks as a whole. Although some SMEs appear to be “turning the corner” following the recession, many are still struggling to find their feet again.
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Image: The body or the soul (oh, how the year has ravaged me) by Leeni!
