SMALL firms are calling for greater Government action to tackle poor payment practices in the UK.

Mike Cherry, of the Federation of Small Businesses, said companies are “sick and tired of being left out of pocket by some unscrupulous big businesses”.

He said: “Small firms want the Government to act to establish clear boardroom accountability for supply chain practices, strengthen payment enforcement and protect small suppliers from losing money they are owed.”

Mr Cherry added: “This Government cannot afford to be late on late payments again.”