Written question asked by Lord Bellingham (Conservative) on Wednesday, 3 December 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 December 2003. It was answered by Patricia Hewitt (Labour) on Thursday, 18 December 2003 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, if she will make a statement on her assessment of the likely role of UK small businesses in rebuilding Iraq.

Answer: Mr. Bellingham: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on her assessment of the likely role of UK small businesses in rebuilding Iraq. [142845] Ms Hewitt: Although most of the main reconstruction work in Iraq will be done by large contractors, there will be opportunities for small businesses in the supply chain, sub-contracting, and in the provision of equipment and specialist services. My Department is helping UK firms make the necessary contacts in Iraq through networking events in neighbouring countries and the provision of project information.

Secondary information