§ 18. Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what recent discussions he has had with the First Secretary about small and medium-sized businesses in Wales. [155509]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI regularly meet the First Secretary and discuss a range of issues.
The Chancellor's Budget announced on 7 March 2001 a package of measures such as help to manage SMEs entry into the VAT system, reduce burdens and improve their cash flow, which will benefit many of the 140,000 SMEs in Wales.
Additionally, the Small Business Council is currently holding events in town halls across the UK with the aim of listening to business and its concerns.