HC Deb 04 November 2003 vol 412 cc557-8W
Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the timescale for the introduction of community interest companies. [136087]

Jacqui Smith

I announced in a Written Ministerial Statement on 10 July 2003,Official Report, column 62WS, that the Government intend to move ahead with legislation on Community Interest Companies, alongside some company law issues, as soon as parliamentary time allows.

Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for Health on the introduction of community interest companies as a means for delivering foundation hospitals. [136088]

Jacqui Smith

None. Subject to legislation, NHS Foundation Trusts are to be incorporated as public benefit corporations, as set out in the Guide to NHS Foundation Trusts and the Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Bill.

Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will list the contributors to the Government's consultation on community interest companies. [136089]

Jacqui Smith

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry announced in a Written Ministerial Statement on 22 October 2003,Official Report, column 41 WS, that a report on the outcome of the consultation on Community Interest Companies has been published. A list of the 134 respondents to the consultation is included at Annex A of the report. Copies have been placed in the Libraries of the Houses and on the DTI website.