A resolution approved in plenary session by MEPs calls for new rules to ease borrowing and cash flow. MEPs stressed that small firms need bank loans tailored to their needs, alternative forms of venture capital, clearer rules on cooperation with lenders, and prompter payments from other firms.

MEPs adopted in plenary session a resolution which calls on a new legislation to support small firms that need bank loans tailored to their needs, alternative forms of venture capital, clearer rules on cooperation with lenders, and prompter payments from other firms. The report also calls on the European Commission to subject all existing and new rules relevant to SMEs to an overall and inclusive impact assessment, with a view to removing burdens and contradictions. In November 2012, the Commission's proposed new programme for SMEs was beefed up by MEPs with a view to negotiations with the Council.

The European Parliament also wants that banks that received state aid or European Central Bank support to help them survive the crisis should be required to tailor loans to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises. Clear rules on how to cooperate and exchange information with lenders e.g. on the lender's financial position or possibilities for the borrower to repay the loan early, would reduce uncertainty on both sides. Given the vulnerability of small firms to late payments from other firms, MEPs urge EU member states to bring the relevant EU directive into effect without further delay. This directive would require firms to add interest to payments not made within 30 days.

The report also highlights that to improve small firms' chances of getting a loan, they should be helped to acquire basic financial knowledge. The resolution was approved by 538 votes to 20, with 22 abstentions.