New service from Hoare

SHARES in Hoare Govett's Smaller Companies Index Investment Trust can now be bought and sold through its own cut- price dealing service.

The trust's portfolio follows Hoare's index of small companies. The low-cost dealing service charges commission of 1 per cent.

There is no minimum charge, but the minimum single purchase through the service is pounds 500. Investors can sign up for a monthly investment purchase deal that requires a minimum pounds 50 purchase in any one company. There are no size restrictions on sales.

More than 30 companies' shares can now be traded through the service, including British Gas, BP, ICI and Hanson.

Details on 081 847 7730.