§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is his Department's policy on the payment of invoices to small and medium-sized businesses.
§ Mr. LeighMy Department's policy is to pay all valid invoices within 30 days of receipt of the goods or services, unless an earlier date is specified. I recognise and support the principles of prompt payment and the Department is participating in the examination of payment performance being undertaken this financial year by the Department of Employment.