Oral Answers to Questions

Scott Mann Excerpts

Tuesday 17th July 2018 Commons Chamber

[Scott Mann (North Cornwall) (Con)]

16. What steps he is taking to support small and medium-sized businesses in the south-west.

[Kevin Foster (Torbay) (Con)]

20. What steps he is taking to support growth in the small business sector.

--- Later in debate ---

[Richard Harrington]

We want to ensure that all businesses get to know how to use the finance they need, including our 1.2 million women-owned businesses. Alongside the online finance finder and the business bank’s finance guide, the business bank is working with partners to understand the representation of women in venture capital firms.

[Scott Mann]

Some small businesses in Cornwall have seen increases in their business rates. This is against a platform of increased online sales. What discussions is the Department having with the Treasury to ensure fairness in our taxation system?

[Richard Harrington]

I thank my hon. Friend for that question. Some people would argue that Ministers engage with the Treasury too often on many matters, but we engage with them regularly on this matter. The Chancellor has been clear that we need to find a better way to tax the digital economy. We are making progress on that before considering the implications for the wider tax system, including business rates.