§ 30. Mr. FavellTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if his Department's proposed business consultancy service will extend to start-ups; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AtkinsStart-up companies are not specifically precluded from applying for the business planning initiative, but experience has shown that their needs are generally best helped through agencies such as the small firms service and local enterprise agencies. The consultancy initiatives are aimed primarily at helping existing business to become aware of new methods and opportunities through the use of specialist outside advice.