§ 119. Mr. Ian TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment if he will make a statement on the visit of the Minister of State, the right hon. Member for Northavon (Mr. Cope), to the European venture capital conference.
§ Mr. CopeI gave the opening address at the European Venture Capital Association symposium on 26 May. It was encouraging to be able to address a gathering of people from different European countries, all concerned with the supply of venture capital to businesses. The symposium provided evidence that the venture capital industry is thriving in Europe, and particularly in the United Kingdom. A survey undertaken by Peat Marwick McLintock showed that of total funds available for investment in Europe at December 1987, 55 per cent. had been raised in the United Kingdom. This is assisting businesses to create additional wealth and employment.