§ Mr. BaldryTo ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will make a statement on the Government's policy objectives for small businesses. [47428]
§ Mr. JenkinsTo ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will list the current(a) objectives and (b) targets of the Government's small firm policies. [47144]
§ Mrs. RocheThe overall aim which underpins the Government's small firms policy is to enhance the competitiveness of small businesses by maintaining a supportive economic and business environment, and delivering high quality business support services.
More detailed policy objectives are currently being refined through a process of consultation, which includes listening to the views of representatives of small business. Our work is also being informed by the recent report of the Trade and Industry Select Committee on Small and Medium Sized Enterprises, and the small firms debate which was held in the House of Commons on 19 June 1998, Official Report, columns 606–76.
The Government's policies for small businesses will be set out in the Competitiveness White Paper to be published in the Autumn.