§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he plans to have discussions with the clearing banks on the loan guarantee scheme.
§ Mr. TrippierI have had many discussions with bankers throughout the country on the question of the scheme. As part of my current review I have met representatives of the main clearing banks and also other banks and financial institutions participating in the scheme. I intend to meet the clearing banks again before the outcome of my review is announced.
§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he proposes any alterations to the loan guarantee scheme.
§ Mr. TrippierMy review of the scheme is nearing completion. I hope to be able to make a statement shortly.
§ Mr. Gryllsasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry which small firms organisations he consulted about the terms of reference of the study of business financed under the small business loan guarantee scheme.
§ Mr. TrippierDuring my current review all the main small firms organisations have been asked for their views and comments on the operation of the scheme. However they were not specifically consulted on the terms of reference for the study by outside consultants.