UK small businesses could be damaging their growth prospects by paying accountants who aren’t even qualified, an accountancy body has warned.

Late payment remains a concern for many small businesses, according to the latest research from the national small business group, the Forum of Private Business.

UK businesses will be able to better protect their intellectual property rights in the UK and abroad as new legislation was given the final go-ahead.

Thousands of UK businesses have given a frank assessment of banking services on a groundbreaking new website.

New figures from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have revealed that it brought in a record £23.9 billion in extra taxes over the last year, after stepping up activity to make sure people pay all the tax they owe.