DELAYS TO VAT REGISTRATION

That this House notes that the current delay of up to four months for VAT registration is causing considerable problems to a number of businesses due to suppliers being unable to provide credit, imported goods being unable to be cleared and business customers refusing to pay invoices without VAT registration; further notes that the Government has said how important growing businesses are to the UK economy; is concerned to note that it is small firms who will continue to suffer without prompt and swift action; and calls upon the Government to resolve the computer and management failings at HM Revenue and Customs as quickly as possible.