The Federation of Small Businesses has released figures from its survey of 1230 of its members indicating that 13% of respondents were looking for a way out of business, the highest rate since 2012. Optimism is tumbling for small businesses due to rising costs and a more uncertain economic climate. "Rent and taxation are frequently mentioned as causes of increased cost, we need to see more support in this space" said Mike Cherry, FSB National Chairman. The survey did note that exporters were more cheerful as the weak pound encouraged more demand abroad and that many small businesses were looking to add more staff.

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