The author goes onto argue that a shift in industrial policy is required with
more control over giant private and public corporations through effective
planning agreements and other measures, and with correspondingly fewer
constraints on smaller firms. Increased personal incentives by themselves will
be ineffective. A comprehensive programme is needed to reduce the various
barriers to the growth and expansion of small firms. The pamphlet contains
proposals for making personnel, finance, information and advice more readily
available. The private and public sectors must work in partnership. Changes
in organisation are therefore needed including a Small Enterprise Commission
at national level, and local economic task forces.
Fabian Tract 453: Think Small – enterprise and the economy
Authors:
Nicholas Falk
Published in:
Fabian Tract 453
Date:
January 1978
Themes:
Economic growth and land management
Locations:
Summary:
Nicholas Falk argues that industrial society is at a turning point where traditional remedies will no longer work. The scale of organisation is as much a problem as ownership. Consequently, the expansion of small firms is essential to strengthen the economy, contain the power of giant organisations, create more work and revive inner cities. The promotion and fostering of small enterprises is thus in harmony with the policies and priorities of the Labour Party.
