HC Deb 29 May 1968 vol 765 cc1810-1
18. Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to consult representatives of smaller businesses in order that their views may be taken into account in framing any future legislation affecting the operation of companies.

Mr. Dell

We intend to consult the Confederation of British Industry and the Association of British Chambers of Commerce about the proposals for companies legislation which we hope to make later in this Parliament and we are ready to consider the views of any other body representative of smaller businesses.

Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

Is the Minister aware that the views of the C.B.I., which he proposes to consult on the question of small businesses, are often directly in conflict with those of the Small Businesses Association, particularly in the field of monopoly, mergers and restrictive practices, where I consider that the C.B.I. has very wrong views which are directly contrary to the interests of competition in small business?

Mr. Dell

I note what the hon. and learned Gentleman says, but I said in my Answer that I was prepared to receive representations from other bodies representing small businesses, and I have just offered to receive a delegation on the suggestion of the hon. Member for Wanstead and Woodford (Mr. Patrick Jenkin).

Mr. John Fraser

If my hon. Friend is now giving a clear indication of further companies legislation, will he also consider including provisions for industrial democracy, such as were hinted at during the passage of the last Companies Act?

Mr. Dell

That takes the Question very much wider. It was indicated during the passage of the last Companies Act that the future legislation which we would introduce during the lifetime of this Parliament would be concerned with implementing the remainder of the Jenkins Report.

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