Question to the HM Treasury:

What plans he has to increase his Department's support for the co-operative sector.

This Government recognises the value of co-operatives and their contribution to the diversity of the UK economy, and is strongly supportive of the sector.

For example, before Christmas, my Department legislated to increase the asset and turnover threshold at which co-operatives have to conduct a full audit from April this year.

The Government will continue to explore further ways to support the sector.