Written question asked by Anne Campbell (Labour) on Thursday, 4 May 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 May 2000. It was answered by Baroness Primarolo (Labour) on Thursday, 18 May 2000 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, If he will make a statement on his plans for a tax reduction for small businesses investing in computers or e-commerce developments. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Mrs. Anne Campbell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on his plans for a tax reduction for small businesses investing in computers or e-commerce developments. [121397] Dawn Primarolo: The Government are introducing in the Finance Bill 100 per cent. first year capital allowances for investment by small businesses in information and communications technology between 1 April 2000 and 31 March 2003. These businesses will be able to write off immediately against their taxable profits the full cost of computers, software including websites, and next generation internet-enabled mobile phones. This measure will encourage small businesses to get on line and will help make the UK the best environment in the world for e-commerce by 2002.

Secondary information