The body representing small companies in Kent is calling on George Osborne to take action on energy and business rates in his Autumn Statement next month.

The Federation of Small Businesses says the doubling of small business rates relief to 100% until March next year needs to be made permanent.

It also is calling for the freeze in rates to be applied to companies in properties worth less than £18,000. At present it stands at £6,000.

The FSB in Kent says the government must also press forward with simplifying tax when the Chancellor makes his speech on December 5.

It added it wants the government to continue efforts to help the long-term unemployed, especially young people.

Reseach carried out by the organisation suggests business rates is the priority for many firms, with many paying more on rates than on rent.

More than a quarter rely on 100% rate relief to survive across the UK but that rate is due to expire next year.

FSB for Kent and Medway chairman Roger House said: “Energy and business rates are an increasing cost burden for small firms in Kent and Medway and are two areas we have highlighted to the Chancellor as needing particular attention.

“We want to see recognition from him that government understands the huge impact these issues have on businesses.

“Clear proposals and timetables for reforms in both of these areas will lock in the confidence we have begun to see building among Kent’s small firms.”

He added: “For the first time in many years we were able to write to the Chancellor with our proposals for the Autumn Statement against an encouraging economic background.

“As Kent’s economy strengthens, we are only too conscious of the urgency to implement reforms in areas such as business rates, energy and banking.

“The government must also continue to build on initiatives to get Kent’s young people into work.

“So while FSB have welcomed the Government’s pro-enterprise measures and efforts to address barriers to small firms’ growth, longstanding issues remain in key areas of the economy.”