British companies need to learn to work "more cleverly" and introduce practices, such as enabling staff to operate from their homes, if the country is to maintain its international competitiveness, it has been claimed.

Former director of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) Sir Digby Jones warns that UK businesses could be outperformed by their Chinese or Indian counterparts unless steps are taken towards so-called smarter working practices.

Additionally, Sir Digby suggests that there are numerous benefits to be had for businesses that incorporate a mobile workforce, not only in terms of productivity but also with regards staff wellbeing.

"This is not about working harder but more cleverly," he said.

"But it does not end there, smarter working practices limit the need to travel and stagger the times of travel, reducing congestion and overcrowding on public transport and also minimising the impact of work upon the environment."

Meanwhile, the CBI recently called on the government to invest in improving public transport systems across the UK.