Barry Sheerman
Main Page: Barry Sheerman (Labour (Co-op) - Huddersfield)
Michael Fallon
There is now a statutory obligation for all public bodies, including the NHS and local authorities, to pay invoices within 30 days.
Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op)
Does the Minister agree that paying small and medium suppliers on time is part of the broader responsibilities of the large company? Will he look at the Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012, which is making a real difference for small and medium-sized enterprises and their relationships with taxpayer-funded local authorities and health authorities? Will he try to ensure that large companies pay taxes and have a broader responsibility to the community in which they sit?
Michael Fallon
That goes a little wider than the original question, but I agree with the hon. Gentleman. There are large companies sitting on large amounts of cash, and it is not right that smaller businesses in their supply chains should have to wait longer than 30 days to be paid promptly.