**Title: New Small Business Commissioner Appointed to Tackle Late Payments and Support SMEs**

In a significant move aimed at bolstering the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector, the government has appointed a new Small Business Commissioner. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance support for SMEs, which are vital to the UK economy, and to address the ongoing challenge of late payments that many small businesses face.

SMEs are often described as the backbone of the UK economy, contributing approximately £2 trillion to the nation’s total turnover. Despite their importance, these businesses frequently encounter hurdles that can hinder their growth and sustainability. Late payments are one of the most pressing issues, with small businesses reporting significant cash flow problems due to delayed invoices from larger clients. This situation not only affects their operational capabilities but also limits their potential for expansion and innovation.

The newly appointed Small Business Commissioner is tasked with tackling these concerns head-on. One of the primary objectives will be to promote fair payment practices across all sectors. The Commissioner will work closely with businesses, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to create an environment where swift payment processes are prioritised and enforced.

In recent years, the government has acknowledged the detrimental impact that late payments have on SMEs. Reports have indicated that nearly one in four small businesses has experienced late payments from clients, resulting in financial strain and, in some cases, business closures. The Small Business Commissioner will play a pivotal role in addressing these issues, providing a voice for small businesses and advocating for prompt payment solutions.

Moreover, the Commissioner will take on the responsibility of educating SMEs about their rights and available resources. By enhancing awareness of existing legislation and regulations regarding payment terms, the Commissioner aims to empower small business owners, equipping them with the knowledge to combat late payment issues effectively.

The appointment of the new Commissioner comes at a critical time when the economy is navigating through post-pandemic recovery. With many small businesses still struggling to get back on their feet, it is essential that the government takes decisive action to support this sector. The Small Business Commissioner will be instrumental in fostering a climate of trust between businesses and encouraging more principled payment practices.

As we look to the future, the success of this initiative will greatly depend on collaboration between the government, large corporations, and SMEs themselves. By working together, we can create a more robust and resilient economy, ensuring that small businesses thrive and continue to make significant contributions to communities and the economy as a whole.

The role of the Small Business Commissioner is now more crucial than ever, and we anticipate a positive impact on the landscape of small business operations in the UK. With determination and support, the government’s efforts to address late payments can usher in a new era of growth and sustainability for our SMEs.

June 17, 2025
政府任命艾玛·琼斯 CBE 为新的小企业专员，以帮助应对迟延付款问题。

政府任命新的小企业专员，作为推动中小企业发展及解决迟延付款问题的努力的一部分。

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