NEW research shows that the European single market is vital for Scottish businesses, the Federation of Small Businesses has said.
The new research, based on three surveys of more than 4,000 firms across the UK, shows that one in three (32 per cent) smaller businesses in the UK are involved in overseas trade as an exporter and/or importer – and that 92 per cent of firms which export trade with the EU single market.
The study also found that one-third (29 per cent) of UK exporting small firms expect their export volumes to decline as a result of Brexit. The research also revealed that one in four (26 per cent) Scottish smaller employers have a non-UK EU citizen on staff.
SNP MSP Joan McAlpine said: “Scotland’s membership of the single market – which is around eight times bigger than the UK market alone – is vital for Scottish businesses.
“This new research shows how many small businesses would be directly affected by leaving the single market – and all of the barriers to trade that would inevitably mean.
“If the Tories are at all serious about protecting our economy, they should get behind our plans to protect our single market membership.”
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