INSTANT VIEW - Credit lifeline to small firms

LONDON (Reuters) - Below are reactions to a government scheme launched on Wednesday to guarantee billions of pounds of loans to small and medium-sized companies.

CHRIS HANNANT, HEAD OF POLICY, BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

"We want to see it working in practice but anything that helps make credit available to businesses will help the economy and hopefully limit the effects of the recession.

"It's a good starting point but we need to see the details. I think with this particular recession, because it is different to previous ones, there is greater uncertainty. One of the key things is for the authorities to keep an open mind about what can help. It's a good start, but let's see its impact and maybe further action will be needed."

PAUL THURSTON, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF UK BANKING, HSBC

"We welcome the government's Working Capital Guarantee Scheme as another valuable step in efforts to support British business."

NICK STARLING, DIRECTOR OF GENERAL INSURANCE AND HEALTH,

ASSOCIATION OF BRITISH INSURERS

"The ABI has been working closely with the government to find a solution to the lack of credit availability in current market conditions. This announcement reflects the confidence government has in the trade credit insurance market. We look forward to taking part in further detailed discussions."