§ Mr. Shersbyasked the Secretary of State for Trade what consideration he is giving to the abolition of the Registry of Business Names; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisAs part of the Government's programme for economising in the Civil Service urgent consideration is being given to the introduction of legislation to repeal the Registration of Business Names Act 1916. Detailed consultation is now taking place with representatives of users of the registry and full account will be taken of their views before a final decision is taken.
§ Mr. Michael Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Trade what is the current delay in weeks between an application for registering a business name with the Registrar of Business Names.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisCertificates of registration are normally issued within a week of the receipt of applications in respect of businesses not previously registered. Applications made following a change of ownership are currently taking on average a month longer to register.