Proposals to cut red tape for businesses in the county have been announced today.

A consultation has begun aiming to reduce the amount of information companies need to file to Companies House.

A key proposal is removing the requirement to complete a mandatory annual return.

Instead companies might confirm figures digitally each year or update them as and when details change.

Business Minister Jo Swinson said: “Cutting unnecessary bureaucracy and red tape for businesses will help build a stronger economy.

“It is only right that as well as doing this we also make sure that the information available on a company is accurate and transparent.

“We’re taking steps that will mean that businesses, pushed for time and money, are not simply filing paperwork for the sake of it.

“This will mean companies can concentrate on growing their business and creating jobs.”

The proposals follow the Red Tape Challenge launched by the government to review company and commercial law, aimed at reducing form filling.

Maidstone-based Balreed Digitec was among the firms which submitted ideas for what regulations should stay and which should go in the challenge.

They are already benefiting from an initial batch of red-tape-cutting reforms launched at the beginning of this month by Business Minister and Sevenoaks MP Michael Fallon.

Group marketing director Gary Downey said: “Simpler health and safety rules mean we can focus on growing our business and supporting our clients.

“The reduced requirements of health and safety legislation will enable us to become more efficient by reducing the cost and burden of compliance.”

Mr Fallon added: “For small firms, less time spent filling in forms means more time planning the next project, winning the next contract or looking for the next young recruit.

“Reducing government interference is improving Britain’s international reputation as a low-regulation, pro-business nation, but more must be done.

"To give our firms the best chance of winning on the global stage, we will press for more cuts in red tape in Europe, as well as at home.”