§ 47. Mr. Evennettasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is satisfied that small firms enjoy adequate access to Government contracts.
§ Mr. TrippierThe Government have recognised that small firms have particular difficulties when seeking Government contracts and are taking steps to help them. We have recently raised to £10,000 the threshold for contracts below which firms are normally exempt from approval procedures and have standardised the financial and general information that Departments require from firms seeking approval. Consideration is now being given to standardising the technical information required. My Department's booklet for small firms on tendering for government contracts is now being updated and the Ministry of Defence has also published its own booklet for small firms. I am always looking for new possible steps which would help small firms make the most of the opportunities.