Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lord Pickles and Simon Burns

Monday 7th April 2014 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

He’s a lucky chappy; let’s call the fellow from Chelmsford.

[Mr Simon Burns (Chelmsford) (Con)]

19. Will my right hon. Friend tell me how many businesses in Chelmsford will benefit from this rate reduction? Does he agree that it is a significant step forward in helping to regenerate businesses, cut unemployment by expanding the work force and encourage small businesses to thrive?

[Mr Pickles]

I reflect that truly the lamb will lie down with the lion, Mr Speaker.

About 800 businesses will potentially benefit from the change, which will make a significant difference to employment prospects. My right hon. Friend’s constituency, which borders on mine, is an excellent place to go to shop and this will help that process along.