§ Mr. Roweasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received about the future of the loan guarantee scheme; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FletcherMy Department receives frequent comments on the loan guarantee scheme from small businesses and representative organisations. Close contact is also maintained with the participating lending institutions. Most comments received are in favour of loan guarantee arrangements, but some representations suggest improvements in the terms of the scheme. I shall take account of these comments when reviewing the future of the arrangements.