Late payment of debt: re-thinking the response

Abstract

Explores the effectiveness of the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998 in assisting small businesses in debt collection. Highlights the concern of small businesses that taking action under the Act will prejudice commercial relations. Identifies other possible strategies including: (1) "naming and shaming"; (2) factoring; (3) discounts for prompt payment; (4) preventing dependency on one large debtor; (5) researching creditworthiness of debtors; (6) seeking the opinion of a credit insurer; and (7) a cultural change in large companies. Considers the potential for Government action