Latest News
Local authorities 'could do more' to help small business
Decisions made by local councils can have a major effect on small firms, according to the Federation of Small Business (FSB).
Red tape costs SMEs £10.2 billion
The amount of regulation faced by small and medium-sized enterprises is stifling business and should be reduced, according to the ICAEW.
Recovering debts can help firms survive the credit crunch
Companies that ensure that they have reclaimed all debts owing to them now, will be better able to continue concentrating on growth if the credit crisis deepens, according to a law firm.
Interest rate cut 'needed to help combat credit crunch'
Businesses and consumers need a quarter per cent base rate cut tomorrow in order to increase consumer confidence, according to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI)
Government code 'to reduce red tape'
The government has introduced a new code of practice intended to make it easier for regulators to consult with businesses on potential new rules.
Tax system 'can be more difficult for the self-employed'
Self-employed businesspeople should be especially careful about their financial affairs, according the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT).
Are banks scaling back small business loans?
Before they will grant business loans, lenders are increasingly making entrepreneurs take out second mortgages on their homes and offer personal guarantees, according to The Guardian.
Tax changes 'more important than enterprise initiatives'
Changes and simplifications to the current tax system would do more to encourage new business in the UK than the government's enterprise strategy, according to an accountancy firm.
Credit crunch dampens business
A new survey has indicated that the credit crunch is continuing to have dampening effect on business.
Small business advice needs to be 'proactive'
The government's small business advice services ought to engage with enterprises to ensure organisations are making use of them, one expert claims.
CBI questions potential London mayors
The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) will today question the four main candidates for London mayor on what they plan to do to help small business.
BCC: 'UK must learn from US approach to economic slowdown'
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) warns that the UK must take a more pro-active approach to the current economic slowdown in order to protect small business.
'Budget will contribute to economic downturn' say business leaders
Most business leaders believe the Budget will be detrimental to the economy, with almost three quarters - 73 per cent - believing that the Budget will contribute to a UK economic downturn, according to a poll in the Independent.
Outside help 'key' to business success
Entrepreneurs who seek outside advice are 20 per cent more likely to survive in business, according to the chief executive of the National Federation of Enterprise Agencies.
Taxman to keep a closer eye on entrepreneurs
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is to be given more powers to pursue and penalise would-be tax evaders.