The number of SMEs (small to medium enterprises) who don't expect future immigration policy to affect their organisation has dropped from 49% in autumn 2018, to 39% now (winter 2018/19), according to a study from The Adecco Group.

This is the first time since the Adecco Group's Brexit tracker started that this number has been under 40%.

Johnny Luk, Head of Policy and Strategy, the Adecco Group UK and Ireland, commented, "The continued uncertainty around Brexit is hitting SMEs hard. They don't yet know enough to plan ahead. This has led to action paralysis, especially as most of the discussion has centred around big business, but very little in the way of SMEs.”

“As SMEs form the backbone of the UK economy, once more clarity emerges it's important that they are able to act fast on any changes and capitalise on opportunities; this will be key to executing any post-Brexit strategy,” Luk said.

The study stated that due to SMEs' size, they are often more agile and nimble contributing to their advantage over larger businesses when it comes to adapting and changing.

“This means they can offer more tailored, and flexible roles for employees,” the report stated. “This will stand them in good stead no matter what the outcome of Brexit is, as they will be able to continue to attract talent.”