§ Mr. Roweasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what is the scale of equity investment under the business expansion scheme, and in small unincorporated businesses in particular; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he will give the latest numbers of businesses assisted through investment under the business expansion scheme.
§ Mr. MooreIn 1983–84 about £105 million was invested in 715 companies. The information for 1984-85 is not yet complete but information currently available shows that over £100 million was invested in more than 500 companies. Of these 500, about 100 also received investments in 1983–84. Relief under the business expansion scheme is available only in respect of purchases of shares in unlisted companies. Unincorporated businesses are therefore excluded.