Oral Answers to Questions

Simon Hart Excerpts

Wednesday 18th January 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jones]

Of course, I share the hon. Gentleman’s concern about the plight of Peacocks. However, so far as I can see from the reports that I have had to date, it is nothing to do with the Government’s economic policy, but everything to do with Peacocks’ banking arrangements. The Wales Office is intensely concerned about the matter and will continue to express concern.

[Simon Hart (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire) (Con)]

9. What support and advice her Department provides to small businesses in Wales affected by non-payment for work undertaken.

[The Secretary of State for Wales (Mrs Cheryl Gillan)]

I understand the effect that non-payment for work undertaken can have on small businesses in Wales. The Government are determined to challenge the long-standing culture of late payment that persists across all sectors of the economy and across businesses of all sizes.

[Simon Hart]

The Secretary of State will know about several sub-contractors working on the Pembroke power station who have not been paid because of a dispute between the main contractors, Alstom and SOMI Impianti. Will she help me to put pressure on those companies to resolve their differences and get the sub-contractors paid?

[Mrs Gillan]

I greatly sympathise with my hon. Friend’s constituents. I have always supported the rights of businesses on late payment of commercial debt. Back in 1994, I signed an early-day motion to that effect, so I have been consistent in my support for a long time. I am happy to meet my hon. Friend to see whether there is anything I can do.