Oral Answers to Questions

Rehman Chishti Excerpts

Tuesday 31st January 2017 Commons Chamber

[Margot James]

The Taylor review will also look into that very important issue. A worker’s contract with his or her employer is the fundamental basis on which he or she is judged to be self-employed or an employee, and that distinction will be closely scrutinised by Matthew Taylor.

[Rehman Chishti (Gillingham and Rainham) (Con)]

7. What steps the Government are taking to support the growth in the number of SMEs in Kent and Medway.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (Margot James)]

SMEs in Kent are fundamental to our economy, as they are everywhere else. Through local growth funds, the work of Kent County Council and the business operations of Kent and Medway, the Government will ensure that the area benefits hugely from the increased number of SMEs.

[Rehman Chishti]

In view of the Government’s commitment to investment in infrastructure, which will assist businesses in Kent and Medway, will the Minister confirm their commitment to the Lower Thames crossing, along with extra investment for Kent roads, which will provide connectivity for local businesses?

[Margot James]

The Department for Transport will make an announcement, but my hon. Friend should be reassured that Kent County Council and the relevant business organisations are working closely with my Department to ensure that there are extensive improvements in the transport infrastructure in his constituency and the wider county.