Edward Miliband has been reminded about the importance of small and medium-sized companies by The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

The FSB has conducted a survey outlining where small firms want government involvement and help.

Three quarters of recipients want the tax system to be simplified, 33% believe too much red tape is hindering the growth of their business and 63% are unhappy with the speed of their broadband connection and want to see accurate advice from service providers.

"The new leader will take the reins of the Labour party at a difficult time, with a coalition government and impending political change. It is important however, that the new leader remembers that small businesses are the biggest employer in the UK and that it is they that will take the UK firmly onto the road to recovery," said John Walker of the FSB.