§ 26. Clive EffordTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action she is taking to encourage new retail businesses to start up in town centres. [2060]
§ Nigel GriffithsThe Small Business Service, through the networks of 45 Business Links, encourages entrepreneurship across society and is placing particular emphasis on start-ups and micro-businesses. Business Link advisers are actively involved in helping such start-ups, including new retail businesses and in so doing address various factors, including finding a suitable location. This is often done in partnership with local authorities, who will have a detailed knowledge of town centre sites.