§ 21. Mr. HawkinsTo ask the Cancellor of the Exchequer how many companies set up under the business expansion scheme have achieved substantial growth in profitability, growth and productivity; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DorrellThe information requested is not available. BES has served its purpose well over the years. A wide range of companies have been helped and the scheme has contributed to a climate in which the role of entrepreneurship has been recognised. We are firmly committed to supporting small firms through a range of policies.