HC Deb 31 March 1988 vol 130 c585W
Ms. Ruddock

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will put forward proposals to regenerate industry in Lewisham.

Mr. Atkins

Industry in Lewisham, as elsewhere, stands to benefit from all we are doing to create a climate that stimulates enterprise, cuts red tape, encourages healthy competition and expands markets for British products and services. The business consultancy scheme which we launched earlier this year, under the enterprise initiative, can help small and medium-sized firms improved their performance and profitability. Lewisham is an urban programme area with a programme of £1.95 million proposed for 1988–89. As a result of this status, eligible companies there qualify for the higher rate of assistance under the enterprise initiative and may also submit projects for city grant. The borough was also the finishing point this year for our national US roadshow, offering detailed guidance on the United States' market to local exporters.