Written question asked by Ian Pearson (Labour) on Thursday, 6 July 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 July 2000. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Thursday, 20 July 2000 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, What assessment he has made of the effect his tax relief on computer and IT investments will have on e-commerce in the UK. (Failed OPQ). - Includes figures.

Answer: Mr. Pearson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect his tax relief on computer and IT investments will have on e-commerce in the UK. [130149] Mr. Timms: The new 100 per cent. capital allowances on computer and IT investments will encourage small businesses to acquire the means to exploit the opportunities offered by e-commerce. These opportunities include access to markets that were previously inaccessible and potentially lower business transaction costs. Small businesses are targeted because they are less prepared for e-commerce than larger businesses. This measure complements other Government initiatives to encourage e-commerce, including investing £60 million to provide advice and planning to help small and medium-sized businesses get on line.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 354 c309W; 130149
Session: 1999-00
Question not reached: Yes
Subjects: Computers Capital allowances ICT Electronic commerce Small businesses Tax allowances
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk