HC Deb 23 April 2001 vol 367 cc3-4W
Mr. Nigel Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the loss to the economy of Gloucestershire of the postponement and cancellation of the Cheltenham Gold Cup Festival. [158345]

Mr. Caborn

The Government are aware that the cancellation of high profile events, such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup in the south west which generate millions of pound in revenue in normal years, is contributing to the financial difficulties of businesses affected by Foot and Mouth disease (FMD).

The Government are constantly monitoring the financial impact of FMD in the country, and has already announced a range of measures to assist businesses through immediate financial difficulties. These measures including rate relief, deferment of taxes, and extensions to the Small Firms Loan Guarantee Scheme.