To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is his estimate of the increased income which will accrue to Companies House in 1999–2000 as a result of proposed changes to the level of fees to take effect on 1 March 1999. [67913]

[holding answer 26 January 1999]: The increased income expected in 1999–2000 as a result of proposed changes to fees from 1 March 1999 is approximately £2 million. This figure includes both the direct effect of changed fees and the forecast impact on sales revenue as volumes adjust to changed fees and other market-place parameters.