Less regulation, a simpler tax system and reformed business rates – these are the top priorities for small firms as they reveal what they want from the new Government in the first poll of SMEs since the election.

Almost half of small and micro businesses in the UK have been victims of cyber crime according to a new survey. But the results also show that many firms are still failing to take the necessary action to protect themselves.

Our round-up of other small business stories making the headlines this week...

Business groups have been swift to react to the unexpected outright win for the Conservatives in the general election as three losing party leaders tender their resignations.

The use of remote working tools, including cloud technology and other online apps, has radically increased as more professionals spend time working away from the office.

The EU executive has set out plans for a digital single market in Europe, covering everything from broadband coverage to copyright rules and courier rates.

Two new surveys from the CBI show that while the manufacturing sector as a whole is struggling, smaller manufacturers report increases in total domestic orders, output and numbers employed in the three months to April.

Our round-up of other small business stories making the headlines this week...

A cut in corporation tax is at the top of the wish list for one in five entrepreneurs, according to a new survey by accountancy firm EY.

British businesses want the UK to remain in the EU but they are calling on the next Government to make EU reform a top priority.