§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many(a) small and (b) medium sized businesses his Department has helped to start since 1 May 1997; and if he will make a statement. [47415]
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§ Mr. HainUnder the enterprise programme managed by the TECs in Wales and funded by the Welsh Office, over 1,500 new business starts have been assisted since 1 May 1997. All can be categorised as small firms.
I am keen to see more good quality businesses established throughout Wales—and to this end a new Business Starts Programme has recently been launched under Business Connect. Further planned action in this area will be set out in the "Economic Agenda for Wales" which will be published shortly.