The latest edition of the ACCA UK and Corporate Finance Network SME Tracker survey, which polls accountancy professionals on the financial outlook of their SME clients, found the top issue SMEs want addressed in the Autumn Statement are measures to tackle inflation (71%).

Over half of SMEs (55%) are also calling for targeted energy support for organisations and businesses, which is yet to be properly detailed. Despite the PM Rishi Sunak acknowledging that ‘difficult decisions’ need to be made, the impact of these decisions remains unclear.

Greater clarity on these decisions is needed, particularly when it comes to energy costs. Based on responses, 79% of SMEs believed the current energy support package for businesses is insufficient. A further 97% of businesses felt that the support did not account for specific energy intensive sectors, with a number citing cutting back on trading hours to address rising energy costs.