HC Deb 10 December 1979 vol 975 cc453-4W
11. Mr. Anthony Grant

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will take steps to encourage the growth of small businesses in large urban conurbations.

23. Mr. Thompson

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will take steps to encourage the growth of small business in provincial towns and cities.

Mr. David Mitchell

The Government are pursuing a number of policies designed to help small firms wherever they may be located. In addition, special assistance is available in certain parts of the country under the Department's regional policy and through local authorities under the urban programme.

Mr. Craigen

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what measures of assistance to small firms are currently being considered; if he is planning a Government-backed loan guarantee facility; and if he plans to use such a facility as a means of assisting small concerns registered under the Industrial and Provident Societies Acts.

Mr. David Mitchell

I have nothing to add to the reply given by my right hon. Friend to my hon. Friend the Member for Luton, East (Mr. Bright) on 12 November.—[Vol. 973, c.894–95.…