Blair McDougall MP named as the government’s new small business minister

by Tracey Carter | J Sep, 2025 | Economy Growth, Spelthorne Business

MP for East Renfrewshire Blair McDougall is the government’s new small business minister. He was appointed as a minister in Keir Starmer’s reshuffle earlier this month but his full role has been confirmed today. He takes over from Gareth Thomas MP who was...

Government promises business rates reform

by Tracey Carter | J Sep, 2025 | Economy Growth, Spelthorne Business

Fixing sudden jumps in business rates when a business opens a second property are among the business rates reforms being considered by the government. Publishing a business rates interim report following consultation with business groups and others, the...

Contactless payments could go unlimited

by Tracey Carter | J Sep, 2025 | Economy Growth, Finance, Spelthorne Business

Contactless card payments could soon exceed the current £100 cap – and even become unlimited – under proposals from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The regulator is consulting on plans that would give banks and card providers the freedom to set their own...

EDF partners with Federation of Small Businesses to help SMEs cut costs and carbon

by Tracey Carter | J Sep, 2025 | Economy Growth, FSB News, Spelthorne Business

Through the collaboration, FSB members will gain access to a dedicated online hub featuring free resources such as guides, blogs, videos, webinars and focus groups. The hub is designed to provide practical advice on how to manage energy more efficiently, while also...

Start-up Surrey launches with expert support for entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses

by Tracey Carter | J Aug, 2025 | Business Surrey, Economy Growth, Local Business, Spelthorne Business, Start up support

Budding entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses across Surrey are set to receive a major boost with the launch of the Start-Up Surrey programme. This is a dynamic new initiative funded by Surrey County Council’s Business Surrey service and delivered by leading...

Small Business Plan unveiled by government

by Tracey Carter | J Aug, 2025 | Economy Growth, Local Business, Spelthorne Business

The Small Business Plan promising SMEs the tools they need to grow has been published by government. This includes better access to finance and stronger powers on late payments. Small and medium sized firms employ 60% of the country’s workforce and generate £2.8...