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The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) claims new government training proposals may result in companies being saddled with unnecessary red tape. 

Under the "time to train" proposals - put forward for consultation by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills - employees would be able to request time off to undertake formal training that leads to a qualification, or for informal unaccredited training that helps them develop a skill relevant to their job.

The FSB  has now written to the government requesting an exemption for businesses with fewer than 20 staff. The organisation is also concerned at the government suggestion that each request should be witnessed by a union representative.

Colin Willman, FSB education and skills chairman, says: "The "time to train" process is too expensive and too bureaucratic for small firms as it stands." A consultation on the proposals runs until 10 September and details can be found here.