HC Deb 08 November 2001 vol 374 cc398-9W
19. Dr. Cable

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress has been made in implementing the findings of the Cruickshank report on UK banking. [11348]

Ruth Kelly

There have been three recent developments.

First, the Julius Review Group published in July its report reviewing the banking codes. The Government are now considering the response of the industry to the report's recommendations.

Second, the Government published their response to consultation on competition in payment systems in August. The Government will bring forward legislation as soon as parliamentary time allows.

Third, the Competition Commission reported to the Chancellor and the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry in October with the findings of its inquiry into the provision of banking services to small and medium sized enterprises. The Government are considering these findings.