The small business commissioner stated that slow-paying customers may prevent SMEs from moving towards a greener future.

Small business commissioner Liz Barclay called on large companies to help their smaller suppliers transition to net zero and suggested that they should share the benefits.

As the Glasgow COP26 summit entered its second week, the commissioner who took over in July appeared to criticize large companies in a statement issued by his office.

"My team and I focus on helping small businesses that are struggling with the poor payment methods of large companies. These often include delayed payments, temporary notification of contract changes, and even non-payment for work.

These have a negative impact on the cash flow of small businesses and are unacceptable. Given that small businesses face some broader challenges in terms of debt, loan repayment, and rising costs after Covid, waiting to be paid may prevent them from taking steps to reduce carbon emissions. "

The statement continued to call on large customers to commit themselves to a simple and fast payment process, give priority to small business invoices, and provide practical assistance to their small suppliers.

Robert Candy, CEO of the Scaffolding Association, the largest scaffolding industry association in the UK, welcomed the news. He commented: "The Scaffolding Association advocates for a sustainable future, but enterprises, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, have not helped. And support will not be able to do this. Some of these needs come from the government, but the industry must also do its part. Changing the behavior of large companies plays a vital role in this regard.

He added: "Given that the construction industry accounts for 20% of UK SMEs and more than any other industry, this approach is more important to us."