Britain's bosses have been accused of a miserly approach to charities and voluntary organisations, despite a huge rise in profits and executive pay.

An investigation by the Guardian newspaper has established that the 100 biggest companies in the UK contribute just 0.4 per cent of their pre-tax profits to charity and community projects. Such a level of donations is less than half than the average in America.

Forum Response: Charities Commission

A spokesman for the Charities Commission told ePolitix.com: "We support fundraising methods that are efficient, effective and sensitive to public opinion and for many charities this can involve attracting corporate donations or commercial partnerships. This can enhance a company's reputation and brand while other benefits can include the opportunity for staff to participate and help in the work of a worthwhile cause."