THE?Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)?has called for “stability” in the wake of the historic EU?referendum.

After 52% voted to leave the European Union at the polls, FSB?national chairman Mike Cherry said: “The events of the last 24 hours have been momentous and the effects have already been seen on the markets. Clearly the EU referendum debate has been contentious, but we now call on the Government and all parties to bring stability for the business community.

“FSB calls on the Government for clarity on what these decisions now mean for business, including how businesses will have access to the single market and the free movement of people and trade.

“Nearly a quarter of FSB members export, with the majority exporting to the single market. Access to the single market means access to 500 million potential consumers, more than 26 million businesses, and is worth 11 trillion euros. We call on the Government for clarity on the impact to smaller firms who export wider afield through EU free trade agreements.”

Mr Cherry added: “These are crucial questions that need to be answered swiftly to ensure the confidence of the UK’s 5.4 million small businesses doesn’t fall any further, which is already at the lowest levels since 2013.This includes clarity over the practical implications of this result on how smaller firms do business.

“The FSB will continue to be a constructive partner in any upcoming negotiations, ensuring the voice of smaller firms is heard loud and clear.”