Written question asked by David Lock (Labour) on Wednesday, 23 June 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 5 July 1999. It was answered by Lord Wills (Labour) on Monday, 5 July 1999 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what assessment his Department has made of the continuing commercial viability of small and specialist shops in small and medium-sized towns; and if he will make a statement; what financial assistance is available from his Department to support small and specialist shops in (a) small and medium-sized towns and (b) Bewdley; and if he will make a statement. - (Holding answer 28 June 1999).

Secondary information