The FPB is calling for a reduction in the burden of legislation which for many firms is a barrier to growth, and for a greater understanding of the impact that late payment and increases in tax have on smaller firms.

Mr Brake was elected in 1997 and has held various senior roles in the Liberal Democrats, including International Development Spokesperson in 2003, Shadow Secretary of State for Transport between 2005 and 2006, and Spokesman for London and the Olympics in 2007.

"Red tape and regulations often impose the same overheads and constraints on small and micro businesses as they do on large companies," said Mr Brake. "Yet the smallest companies' lack of resources makes it more difficult for them to overcome the risks and deal with the administrative overheads. This campaign to make government think smallest first has my full support."

On receiving the MP's signed pledge, the FPB's Chief Executive, Phil Orford, said: "Tom Blake's signature adds even more momentum to our Think Smallest First campaign. Having a former Olympics Spokesman on board will really help, as one of our key objectives is to increase the number of small firms winning public contracts, especially those on offer for the London 2012 games."

The FPB's Think Smallest First campaign was launched in June 2008, and has gained cross-party support from MPs and Ministers. In June 2008, the FPB posted a petition on the Downing Street website, which now has more than 800 signatures from owners of small businesses and members of the public.

Mr Brake was educated in France and at Imperial College, London, where he gained a BSc (Hons) in Physics. He is married with two children and he enjoys running and cycling. Mr Brake speaks fluent French.