HC Deb 29 June 1999 vol 334 c121W
22. Mr. Bercow

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the economic prospects for small businesses in Scotland. [87536]

Dr. Reid

The Government are laying the foundations for high and stable levels of growth. Interest rates are at their lowest level for 22 years, inflation is low, and the public finances are under control. Combined with cuts in the small business tax rate to 20 per cent., and a new l0p starting rate of tax for the smallest firms from April 2000, the economic prospects for small businesses are very encouraging.