§ Mr. Heddleasked the Paymaster General if he will extend the scope of his inquiry into the effect of late payment of accounts by large companies on the profitability of small companies to include the payment practices of Government Departments; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TrippierI assume my hon. Friend's question relates to discussions with representative organisations of the scope for reducing the problem of late payment of bills. The possibility of issuing guidance for customers and suppliers is under consideration. Government Departments already have standing instructions to pay bills promptly. Their practices will be taken into account in preparing guidance.