Emma Jones has marked one year as Small Business Commissioner with a continued focus on faster payments, digital tools and cash flow protection. UK SMEs should use the moment to tighten invoice and payment processes.
The CMA is consulting on rules that could let UK app developers steer customers towards payment options outside Apple and Google’s platforms.
A new 3,000 pound grant for employers hiring eligible young people launches on 30 June. Small firms should check the rules, cash-flow timing and training plan before applying.
HMRC is reminding Self Assessment customers that the second payment on account is due by 31 July, making this a cash-flow checkpoint for many sole traders, partners and small business owners.
A temporary VAT cut on family days out and children’s meals creates a short operational window for small hospitality, leisure and visitor-economy businesses.
HMRC has updated agent guidance for signing clients up to Making Tax Digital for Income Tax, with planned July downtime making it worth checking authorisations, software and client records now.
UKHSA has extended red heat-health alerts across several English regions. Small employers should review working conditions, rotas, travel plans and customer-facing operations while the warning is in force.
HMRC says sole traders and landlords required to use Making Tax Digital for Income Tax from April 2026 should sign up now. Small businesses should check thresholds, software and agent authorisations.
Defra says UK agri-food attachés have unlocked £80 million in export opportunities this year. Small producers should turn the headline into a practical market-access checklist.
A temporary VAT cut on family attractions and children’s meals has begun for the summer holidays. Small hospitality and leisure firms should check eligibility, systems, pricing and records before changing offers.