FINANCIAL service companies in Halton could be investigated by the Financial Service Authority to ensure improvements are being made in the handling of customers' cash.

Halton firms, including general insurance brokers, motor traders and other firms that sell insurance alongside their main business, could be counted among a sample of 200 firms being visited by the FSA in October.

The FSA says companies need to do more to meet their obligations in handling clients' money and to get their calculations correct.

The watchdog launched the Client Money Guide in April this year explaining their obligations and how to achieve them.

And later this year an interactive training package will be posted online.

A FSA spokesman said: 'The FSA has already introduced targeted information and resources for small firms as part of its commitment to make it easier to do business with.

'These include small firms application packs, a single invoice for all fees, payments by instalments, e-learning packages, a more targeted website for small firms - www.fsa.gov.uk/smallfirms - roadshows, surgeries and improvements at the Firm Contact Centre.'