Confidence ebbs from business owners

One in eight small business owners have lost confidence in the economy and think that trading conditions will worsen over the next year. A Microsoft-funded report also suggests that 40% of owners will not encourage others to start a business in the current economic climate. In light of the findings, Microsoft is urging the government and industry to put more effort into maintaining the UK's position as an innovative and entrepreneurial nation. It says that small firms are the 'engine room' of sustained economic growth and are vital to fending off global competition. It compares the UK picture to China, where a reported 16% of the adult population already operate as entrepreneurs. The research concludes by saying that the problem lies more with a lack of confidence than a lack of funding. problem lies more with a lack of confidence than a lack of funding. Healthier Tomorrow, puts the total cost of ill health to the British economy at £103 billion: larger than the NHS annual budget.