The UK’s Business and Trade Committee has recently announced the launch of two significant inquiries- both of which present crucial opportunities for stakeholders across business, research, and innovation sectors to have their voices heard at a national level.
UK Trade Relationships with the US, India, and EU
As global trade dynamics continue to evolve, the Committee has opened an inquiry into the UK’s relationships with three of its most critical trade partners: the United States, India, and the European Union.
The inquiry will examine:
- The UK–India Free Trade Agreement
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The UK–US Economic Prosperity Deal
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The outcomes of the latest UK–EU Summit
The Committee is seeking insights into how these trade frameworks are being implemented and their real-world impact on UK businesses, workers, consumers, and communities.
Businesses, trade associations, civil society groups, researchers, and other stakeholders with relevant expertise or experience are invited to provide evidence on:
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The likely effects of these trade agreements on their sector
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The opportunities and challenges created
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Priorities for ongoing negotiations with the US and EU
Deadline for written evidence: 31 August 2025
Submit evidence here
Building a National Strategy for Small Businesses
Recognising that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) make up 99.8% of UK businesses, the Committee is also launching an inquiry into the UK’s small business strategy.
This initiative aims to give SMEs a stronger voice in shaping the country’s growth strategy—particularly vital at a time when high street vacancy rates are rising and economic pressures continue to mount.
The inquiry will explore:
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The challenges SMEs face, from business rates and rents to accessing finance and government contracts
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How the Government can better support start-ups and family-run businesses
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What policy reforms are needed to support SME productivity, innovation, and long-term sustainability
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How best to coordinate efforts across government and local authorities
“Britain’s small businesses are the quiet powerhouse of our economy — but too often they are locked out of the decisions that shape their future. While a fortunate few dominate the corridors of power, too many small firms fight battles alone: battling soaring rents, battling unfair business rates, battling to access capital, contracts and customers.
“This inquiry is about one thing: giving small businesses the voice in the national debate that they deserve, to build a growth strategy that works not just for the giants but for the grafters, the builders and the job creators who power our communities and high streets.” – Rt Hon Liam Byrne MP, Chair of the Committee
Interested stakeholders are now invited to join in the national survey and/or submit evidence on the below, by 16th July-
- Stategy
- Starting a business
- Supporting growth
- Costs
- Business support
- Improving productivity
- Implementation
Survey and more information available here
