Tourism (Hansard, 17 October 2001)

§ 9. Chris Ruane
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary of the National Assembly on support for small businesses in the tourism sector in Wales. [4199]

§ Mr. Paul Murphy
I regularly meet the First Secretary of the National Assembly to discuss a variety of issues, including the tourism sector in Wales.
Over the last six months, I have made many visits to different parts of Wales, meeting representatives of local business communities, hoteliers and other organisations to listen to their concerns.

§ 12. Mrs. Betty Williams
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary of the National Assembly on financial assistance for small businesses in the tourism sector which have been affected by foot and mouth disease. [4202]

§ Mr. Paul Murphy
I have regular meetings with the First Secretary to discuss a variety of issues, including the tourism sector in Wales.
The Under-Secretary, my hon. Friend the Member for Islwyn (Mr. Touhig), recently visited my hon. Friend's constituency and met representatives of the local business community, hoteliers and other organisations to listen to their concerns on the effects of FMD on the local economy.

§ 17. Mrs. Curtis-Thomas
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the use of the Small Firms Loan Guarantee Scheme for promotion of businesses in tourism. [4208]

§ Mr. Paul Murphy
The Small Firms Loan Guarantee Scheme, a UK-wide scheme, is the responsibility of the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry.
This scheme, which has been running since 1981, helps viable small firms access loans where conventional finance is unavailable because of a lack of security. Under standard scheme terms and conditions many business sectors are eligible including some within tourism.
The scheme was temporarily extended in April 2001 to assist businesses affected by the outbreak of foot and mouth disease. Coverage was extended to a number of business sectors normally excluded, including retailing, catering and others within tourism.