Banks promise to help Britain's businesses

Setting out their members commitment to small businesses in a 10 point promise the British Bankers' Association said the Statement of Principles that underpins the Business Banking Code was being reviewed with business groups. Chief Executive Angela Knight said the aim was to ensure everyone pulled together to build up the strength of businesses to help them fight their way through current tough economic conditions.

Mrs Knight said: "The UK's banks want to see their customers flourish even in these testing times. We are determined to help our customers make the most of their businesses and part of that is to ensure they have access to finance as well as independent advice and help when times are tough. Businesses with good ideas need to be reassured that banks are listening and are working actively with them. Armed with these promises, Britain's entrepreneurs can confidently speak frankly with their banks about their needs and the challenges they face."