Committee calls for evidence from small business on government’s credit scheme

A committee of MPs has asked small and medium size enterprises to provide evidence on the way in which banks have used the Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) scheme.

New committee says government must support efficient recovery of UK oil and gas

UK oil and gas production peaked in 1999 and is now declining by around 5% annually.

Science and Technology Committee reformed after creation of new super-department

The government has announced that it will establish a Commons Science and Technology Committee. It will meet for the first time in October.

Guitarist in Parliament’s rock group welcomed to the new world of Mandelsonia

Ministers from the new Department of Business, Innovation and Skills answered questions in the Commons last week.

MPs praise Chris Bryant’s performance as Deputy Commons Leader

The Shadow Leader of the House of Commons has led tributes to Chris Bryant, who was promoted to a junior post in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office earlier this week.

Lord Mandelson handed ‘super department’ in Cabinet reshuffle

Peter Mandelson has been given the title First Secretary of State and will head up a new department.

MP calls for tough action against pirate radio stations

A Conservative MP has accused the government of making “very little progress” on combating pirate radio stations.

The week in Parliament – fraud, vending machines and parking fines

There are 13 vending machines in operation on the House of Commons estate.

MPs call for Competition Commission to investigate pub companies

The Business and Enterprise Select Committee has published a unanimous report into so-called “pubcos,” companies that own chains of public houses.

Peer calls on online retailers to regulate underage sales

Knifes, alcohol and pornography are all being bought by children under 18 from internet retailers, a peer has told the House of Lords.