HC Deb 18 June 1998 vol 314 c315W
3. Mr. Llwyd

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will make a statement on the range of schemes available to assist in the start-up of small and medium businesses. [45052]

Mrs. Roche

There is a range of support available to assist those wishing to start-up in business. This includes schemes funded through the Single Regeneration Budget Challenge, European Structural Funds and New Deal together with other locally funded initiatives.

The Business Link network, Business Connect in Wales and Scottish Business Shops provide key information, business support and advice through partner organisations such as Local Enterprise Agencies and Training and Enterprise Councils.

26. Mr. Dismore

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will make a statement on the support offered by Government to small businesses. [45077]

Mrs. Roche

Small businesses are crucial to a successful enterprise economy and the Government are firmly committed to stimulating and sustaining the competitiveness of the sector.

The key principles underlying the Government's approach include fostering an enterprise culture that rewards innovators and risk takers; providing and maintaining a supportive economic environment; and providing high quality business support for SMEs at all stages of their development.