§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his Department's policy on the payment of invoices to small and medium-sized businesses.
§ Mr. HeseltineIt is my Department's policy to ensure that payments to contractors and consultants are made promptly within the period stipulated in the appropriate contract or within 30 days of receipt of a valid invoice.
I am fully aware of the serious cash flow problems that small and medium-sized businesses may face if payments are late and special attention is given to the payment of their bills. My officials monitor payment performance, and make quarterly returns to the Department of Employment which intends to publish them.