Oral Answers to Questions

Anne Marie Morris Excerpts

Tuesday 17th January 2012 Commons Chamber

[Anne Marie Morris (Newton Abbot) (Con)]

5. What assessment he has made of the implications for his Department of economic conditions in the EU.

[Mr Mark Spencer (Sherwood) (Con)]

16. What assessment he has made of the implications for his Department of economic conditions in the EU.

[The Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington)]

The crisis in the eurozone is having a chilling effect throughout Europe, which is why this Government are arguing vigorously within the European Union for action to promote growth by deepening the single market, boosting trade and cutting red tape.

[Anne Marie Morris]

I thank the Minister for his response. Does he agree that it is important that policies are enacted at EU level to encourage economic growth? Measures designed to help drive sustainable economic recovery, such as exempting micro-businesses from the burden of red tape, would have positive implications for all Government Departments across the 27 member states, including his own.

[Mr Lidington]

I agree completely with my hon. Friend, which is why the agreement at the December European Council for an exemption from European regulations for micro-business was particularly welcome, especially as that will apply not only to new European legislation but will prompt a review of the existing acquis in respect of micro-businesses.