Norfolk business group warns small firms will close without bank holiday support
Official figures shows that this currently brings close to three and a half billion pounds into Norfolk's economy, every year
A group that represents small businesses in Norfolk is warning that many firms will be lost for good- if they're not supported by people over the May bank holidays.
Nearly 11 million in UK say they're planning to go on holiday somewhere in the country over the long Easter weekend- according to tourism group Visit England.
Meanwhile, official figures shows that this currently brings close to three and a half billion pounds into the county's economy- every year.
"Comes at a time when consumers are still quite nervous about spending"
Candy Richards represents the 'Federation of Small Businesses' in the East:
"For businesses that employ staff, many have seen the cost of that increase of that go up.
"Many of those in leisure, hospitality and retail have seen their business rates go up, as well.
"This comes at a time when consumers are still quite nervous about spending, in general.
"What we need is a King's Speech that actually introduces a dedicated small business bill. Then at the Autumn budget we need the Government to reform business rates and cut taxes.
"After all, they are the firms that recruit and hire local people".
What has been announced to support small businesses?
The Government say they announced a permanent business rates discount of 40%, with a cap of £110,000 in the Autumn budget to support small firms