European Commission Enterprise and Industry Directorate General, Oct 2005

A valuable report on how policy makers in European countries consult with small businesses. It finds that since small enterprises constitute approximately 99% of businesses in all European economies, it is essential that the policy makers carefully listen to their opinions, involve them in the decision making process at an early stage and take their specific situation and their interests into account when developing new legislation and policies. Along with providing several interesting case studies, the report includes twelve recommendations addressed to national and regional governments on how to establish a more efficient dialogue with stakeholders and improve the consultation procedures. Annexes and consultation reports can be accessed here.