Half of adults would like to be own boss

Entrepreneurial spirit in the UK is stronger than ever, according to new research suggesting that half of all adults have thought about starting up their own business.

A YouGov survey, commissioned by the Entrepreneurs Organisation (EO) London, found that 55% of men had thought about taking the plunge, compared to 44% of women.

Almost two thirds of 25 to 34 year olds claimed to have the desire to be their own boss, compared with 42% of over 55 year olds. Over a third of adults questioned said that it was possible that they would actually start a business at some point in the future.

Regionally, London appeared to have the highest concentration of would-be entrepreneurs, with 55% of respondents claiming to have considered a foray into the business world. Least entrepreneurial were those in the north, where 44% reported considering starting a business.

"These results are extremely encouraging, proving that there is a wealth of entrepreneurial drive in the UK, just waiting to be harnessed," said William Berry, EO London communications chair.