There is now a little over a month to go until the European elections, and while it can sometimes be hard to relate to what happens at an EU level, events there have a real impact on companies here in south east Wales.

On one hand, the single market creates significant export opportunities, even for many small firms.

On the other hand, regulations coming from the EU can place an additional burden on businesses in Wales.

On April 28 we are holding an event which will provide an opportunity for prospective MEPs from each of the main parties to set out where they stand on business issues.

It will provide a valuable opportunity to find out how they would stand up for the interests of small businesses in communities across Wales should they be elected on May 22.

At the FSB we believe that small businesses should not be burdened with overly costly or time-consuming regulation, and that regulation should be proportionate and easy to understand. After all, most small businesses don’t have the in-house expertise to deal with ever-changing requirements, and so can be disproportionately burdened by new regulations if they are not carefully drafted.

When it comes to the EU the FSB wants to see a culture of ‘Thinking Small First’ around regulation, so that the regulations created are appropriate to firms of every size.

Indeed, it is the notion of ‘Think Small First’ that we want to see candidates from all political parties take on board. We hope that the next intake of MEPs will be keenly aware of the needs of the small businesses within their constituencies.

Our event is being held at Cardiff Metropolitan University from 10.45am until 3pm on Monday, April 28. A limited number of places are still available. To book a place contact Christie.engwell@fsb.org.uk or call 02920 747406.