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Small Firms Impact Test

The Small Firms Impact Test (SFIT) is a mandatory part of the Impact Assessment process. The government's manifesto commitment in 2001 ensured the 'think small first' principle was followed as part of UK policy development.

The Cabinet Office and National Audit Office will regard any RIA for a measure bearing on business, and which lacks a SFIT, as 'deficient'.

The Test is intended to provide sufficient guidance for policymakers, to confidently establish impact on small businesses.

However, contact the BERR Enterprise Directorate at the earliest stages of policy development if there is a belief that the measure being considered is likely to have a significant impact on SMEs, or if help is needed to successfully complete the SFIT.

Contact the Enterprise Directorate Regulatory Policy Team at regulation@berr.gsi.gov.uk or by telephone on 020 7215 5679.

The following guidance documents are also available:

Small Firms Impact Test: Guidance for Policy Makers (7 pages)

Small firms impact test: guidance for policy makers (209KB)