§ Mr. Gryllsasked the Secretary of State for Industry which organisations representing small companies he is consulting on the progress of the small firms loan guarantee scheme; and when he expects his consultations to be completed.
§ Mr. MacGregorI have frequent contact with the various organisations representing small firms. The loan guarantee scheme is one of the items that are discussed at these meetings.
My preliminary review of the scheme, primarily with the clearing banks and ICFC, is progressing and should be completed fairly soon. However, it must be emphasised that some aspects of the scheme's impact are not susceptible to early appraisal.