The Conservative party yesterday announced that their tax reforms would have to go through a small business test.

Members of the opposition party were speaking as the House of Commons voted on tax increases which would affect small firms.

Shadow small business spokesman Mark Prisk criticised the increases, saying they "will hit hard the small companies that are the backbone of our economy".

Meanwhile, shadow treasury minister Mark Hoban commented on the thinking behind the party's proposal for the test, remarking: "We want small businesses to focus on creating wealth and not have to battle through the government's complex system of rules and reliefs.

"We will make sure that our reforms are good for companies of all sizes."

In March, leader of the Conservatives David Cameron voiced his support for smaller businesses by supporting a Save Our Small Shops campaign promoted by the Evening Standard.