Vol. 436 No. 5
100 Mr. L. Burke asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment his views on whether all local and central Government Departments and agencies dealing with smaller businesses should review their procedures and publish target response times in respect of all normal dealings; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
125 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the grave difficulties small businesses experience in trying to recover outstanding business debts; the proposals, if any, he has to address this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take oral Question No. 100 and written Question No. 125 together. I am aware of the problems for small businesses caused by late payments. The issue including that associated with local and central Government Departments and agencies is being addressed in the context of the work of the Task Force on Small Business. I am aware of the high priority given to this issue by the Task Force and I await their proposals in the matter.
