Oral Answers to Questions

Robert Halfon Excerpts

Tuesday 6th September 2011 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

We are grateful.

[Robert Halfon (Harlow) (Con)]

15. What fiscal measures he is taking to reduce the costs faced by businesses.

[The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury (Mr David Gauke)]

In addition to taking action to reduce the fiscal deficit, the Government are putting in place a number of measures to create the right conditions for businesses to grow. This includes reducing corporate taxes to encourage businesses to invest, establishing enterprise zones, and increasing the support that research and development tax credits provide to small and medium-sized companies.

[Robert Halfon]

Does my hon. Friend agree that the new enterprise zones will transform the fiscal situation for local businesses? As there is a new enterprise zone in Harlow, will he set out the tax advantages that we will gain and when they will start?

[Mr Gauke]

I am delighted that one of the two enterprise zones in the south-east local enterprise partnership will be in my hon. Friend’s constituency of Harlow; 100% of business rates collected on the Harlow site will be retained for 25 years and are to be spent on local economic priorities. This will be possible from April 2013, once the necessary legislation is passed. Businesses will also benefit from simplified planning and Government support to ensure that superfast broadband is rolled out throughout the zone.