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Government to review procurement
A review into the public sector contract procurement process has been welcomed by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), which hopes it will lead to a fairer deal for firms.
'Invest in IT' to boost business
Small firms need to encourage more flexible working practices and invest in IT skills to increase productivity.
Companies 'should focus on staff skills'
The current climate makes it more critical for businesses to invest in developing people and increasing their skills.
Proposals for SMEs not effective, says BCC
David Kern, chief economist at the British Chamber of Commerce, has criticised Alistair Darling’s Pre-Budget proposals for SMEs.
Tax rise put on hold
The planned one percentage point rise in corporation tax has been put on hold in an attempt to boost small businesses.
VAT cuts 'will not help small firms'
A reduction in value added tax (VAT) of 25 pence in the pound will not help small businesses and many may not pass it on, say some entrepreneurs.
Government money made available for SMEs
In his Pre-Budget Report Alistair Darling has announced a £1 billion small business finance scheme to help struggling companies gain credit.
Small business training 'should be recognised'
Small firms should be recognised for the effort they put into on-the-job training for staff, the Federation for Small Businesses (FSB) says.
Tax cuts possible to boost spending
The pre-Budget report, due out today, may see cuts in value added tax (VAT) to encourage Britons to increase spending in the run up to Christmas.
UK needs to help start-ups
The country needs to work collectively to help people with good ideas to start up their own business.
Government launches £25 million business fund
The government has launched a £25 million fund to aid women in business, aimed at high-growth companies.
£1m for Scottish start-ups
A £1 million fund has been launched for Scottish entrepreneurs to help them set up firms with a social or environmental purpose.
Going green 'can save money'
Businesses can save money by employing greener methods, but it requires some investment upfront which may put firms off.
Pre-budget tax cut calls
Tax cuts announced in the pre-budget report on Monday will be targeted to benefit SMEs, says accountancy firm Deloitte.