Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

Oral Answers to Questions

Sarah Olney Excerpts
Tuesday 11th October 2022

(2 years ago)

Commons Chamber
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Kwasi Kwarteng Portrait Kwasi Kwarteng
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I think the hon. Gentleman makes a very good point and represents his constituency ably. In respect of small businesses, we have introduced a package —an energy price guarantee not only for households but for businesses—to the tune of £30 billion in the first six months. This is something that was absolutely necessary, and I am very proud of the fact that we acted very swiftly to protect businesses such as those in his constituency.

Sarah Olney Portrait Sarah Olney (Richmond Park) (LD)
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The Government’s failed mini-Budget sent interest rates soaring, which is already causing mortgage pain for millions, but rising borrowing costs are now threatening our high streets too. Small businesses in Richmond Park and across the UK are seeing their loan repayments spiral and their financing options dry up. We have already seen the highest number of company insolvencies since the financial crisis—more than 5,600 businesses closed in the second quarter of this year—and SME debt is now at a staggering £204 billion. Most of those businesses will not see a penny from the cut to corporation tax. What is the Chancellor—

Lindsay Hoyle Portrait Mr Speaker
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Order. Come on—we cannot do that.