Businesses in the district are not getting enough export advice from the government, according to a new report.

Due to lack of government advice 69 per cent of the area's medium sized companies in the region are turning to their financial providers for advice on exporting.

Nearly half of the businesses surveyed, 43 per cent, have concerns over exporting into Europe, with more than a quarter, 29 per cent, daunted by the financial implications it may cause.

More than a third, 38 per cent, want to know more about alternative methods of funding an export drive into Europe.

The research, which saw 200 business leaders questioned, found that nearly a quarter, 22 per

cent, of companies in the region feel that the economic slowdown has dramatically increased bad debts. John Savage of Fortis Commercial Finance said: "This research demonstrates that companies in Yorkshire and Humberside are concerned about exporting into Europe because of potential financial implications.

"With the majority looking to their funding provider for advice, it is essential that their financier has the appropriate knowledge and experience."

A massive 72 per cent of the business leaders said they admire Germany most in terms of economic growth.

While 74 per cent of companies in Yorkshire and Humberside rate the South East as the number one region in the UK for performance.

A further 67 per cent said feel electronic payments will help reduce late payment problems.

While, 92 per cent said that they were not concerned about the security of using electronic payment.