Over 60,000 businesses have taken advantage of HM Revenue & Customs time to pay arrangements and delayed paying certain taxes.

The total figure of delayed payment by UK firms, many of them small companies, is over £1bn.

The time to pay arrangements are particularly helpful to smaller firms that are experiencing cash flow and credit difficulties during the current recession.

"This service is delivering the kind of tangible support that business needs at this time. I would urge any business anticipating or experiencing difficulties paying their tax to call the helpline and get a quick response tailored to their specific needs," said Stephen Timms, financial secretary to the Treasury.