Government Announcements

Business groups respond to Queen's Speech

09 May 13

The Government's plans for the new parliamentary session have been outlined in the Queen's Speech. Proposals of interest to businesses include those around national insurance contributions, consumer rights and deregulation.

Revamp for Scottish planning system

08 May 13

Proposals to overhaul Scotland's planning system will help to deliver more jobs and sustainable economic growth, the Scottish Government has said.

Funding for Lending Scheme extended for SMEs

24 Apr 13

The Funding for Lending Scheme (FLS), designed to boost lending to businesses and households, is to be extended until January 2015, the Bank of England has announced.

SMEs at increasing threat of cyber-attacks

23 Apr 13

Small businesses are being urged to do more to tighten their computer security after research revealed the number of cyber-attacks hitting businesses increased over the last year.

Business bank opens for business

11 Apr 13

The Government-backed business bank has launched its first phase of funding, worth £300 million, to help small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) access finance.