The UK prime minister has urged UK businesses to follow an open data and transparent model.

David Cameron has asked UK businesses to move to display and publish data as part of a move to encourage transparency and prevent corruption and tax avoidance.

The announcement came as he attended the Open Government Partnership Annual Summit in London, as Mr Cameron revealed plans to create a central register, containing the details of company owners.

Mr Cameron said: “For too long a small minority have hidden their business dealings behind a complicated web of shell companies, and this cloak of secrecy has fuelled all manner of questionable practices, and down-right illegality”.

The call for the display of open data comes as Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude urged SMEs to ask for increased transparency and accountability from the government’s procurement process.

Francis Maude calls for SMEs to put pressure on the government procurement process

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