§ Ms. WalleyTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what assessment he has made of the availability of long-term finance to small and medium-sized businesses seeking funding for expansion and capital reconstruction.
§ Mr. LeighThe vigour and dynamism of small and medium-sized businesses over the past 12 years show that their capital needs for start-up, expansion and reconstruction are largely being met from the expanding range of public and private sources. Government initiatives have complemented the role of the banks and other financial institutions. We will continue to encourage everyone concerned to take account of the special needs and potential of this sector, including the need for long-term finance.