§ Mr. MichaelTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to enable British businesses directly affected by the economic impact of the Gulf crisis to weather the financial problems facing them at the present time.
§ Mr. Leigh[holding answer 22 January 1991]: None. It is for businesses themselves, in consultation with their banks and financial advisers to consider what measures are appropriate to their specific circumstances. DTI regional offices are, however, giving priority to the needs of affected companies to help them find new markets. My Department is also taking appropriate action to assist British industry in playing a significant part in the reconstruction of Kuwait after its liberation.