§ Mr. CotterTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what plans she has to protect small businesses against the late payment of commercial debt. [2637]
§ Mrs. RocheThe Government will introduce a comprehensive range of measures to address the late payment of commercial debt. These will include the introduction of legislation giving businesses a statutory right to claim interest on late payment of commercial debt, a review of the company reporting requirements and a requirement that Government Departments and local authorities pay their bills on time.