HC Deb 06 July 2000 vol 353 cc248-9W
Mrs. Browning

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has held with small business organisations concerning his proposals to pay subsidies to sub-post offices. [129431]

Mr. Byers

In preparing their report "Counter Revolution: Modernising the Post Office Network", the Performance and Innovation Unit (PIU) had discussions with a number of organisations representing small businesses. In addition, both the PIU and I have had extensive discussions with the National Federation of Subpostmasters about the Government's proposals for financial assistance to modernise and improve the sub-post office network.

Mrs. Browning

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has held with the EU concerning his proposals to pay subsidies to sub-post offices. [129432]

Mr. Byers

The European Competition Commissioner has been informed about the new package of measures to modernise the post office network. Throughout the process of developing detailed projects officials will work in close consultation with the European Commission.

Mr. Redwood

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what recent discussions he has had with the European Commission about the legality of granting subsidies to post offices; [129212]

(2) if he has clearance from the EU competition authorities to grant subsidies to post offices. [129211]

Mr. Byers

I refer the right hon. Member to the answer given today to the hon. Member for Tiverton and Honiton (Mrs. Browning).