§ 5. Mr. McBrideasked the Secretary of State for Wales what assessment he has made of the future prospects of small business firms in Wales.
§ Mr. Peter ThomasThe Government have established special arrangements to deal with the small firms sector of the economy. I expect such firms to continue to benefit from the Government's economic policies.
§ Mr. McBrideWill the Secretary of State say what advice he has tendered to the Cabinet about the effects on small 889 Welsh firms of a diminution in cash reserves and investment intentions as a result of the 18 per cent. overdraft rate and the effect upon such firms of the new rate proposals whereby the variable proportion of £60 million will have to be borne by them, thus acting as a deterrent to the attraction of industry and investment?
§ Mr. ThomasIf the hon. Gentleman has any particular firm in mind I shall be grateful if he will get in touch with me, so that I can look into the matter.