§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his Department's policy on the payment of invoices to small and medium-sized businesses.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardThe Treasury's policy on the payment of invoices is in line with the guidance issued to316W departments in "Government Accounting". Payments are made in accordance with stipulated contract provisions or where no specific provisions exist, within 30 days of the presentation of a valid invoice. The Treasury recognises and supports the principles of prompt payment and consequently is participating in the examination of payment performance being undertaken by the Department of Employment.