Q.First we had Prince Harry in Afghanistan and now Prince William is off to fight drugs cartels in South America. Should our leading Royals be put in harm's way like this?

A.If they choose to join dangerous professions then they should be expected to undertake the tasks that all other members of the armed services currently do. I agree with the news blackout to protect them and their fellow soldiers. If they want a less dangerous role, we would have a position for them at Budworth Hardcastle.


Q. Peterborough has ambitious plans to transform the city over the next few years and aspires to be the UK's environment capital? Are we being too ambitious?

A.I attended a seminar recently where Jonathan Selwyn of UKCEED gave a talk on this very subject. I was amazed at how many environmental companies there are in this region. A very worthwhile and achievable target to be the UK's environmental capital.


Q. With the Bank of England expected to cut interest rates today, do you think more cuts are needed to combat the credit crunch?

A.Various steps have been taken to increase liquidity in the market. The previous cuts in base rates have not had the desired effect as the banks have not been passing on those reductions to the borrowers, but one more can do no harm.The real issue is the LIBOR Rate.


Q. The construction industry is going through a tough time at the moment – are there real deep-rooted problems or will the sector bounce back?

A. History points to the fact that property prices continue to rise over the years. When liquidity returns to the market (see answer above), the residential market will return. Base rates are still historically very low, and once first time buyers can afford to return to the market, this will kick start renewed activity and see construction moving forward as before.


If you would like to feature in Company Car then contact Business Editor Paul Grinnell on 01733 588724 or email him on paul.grinnell@peterboroughtoday.co.uk