§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what has been the annual cost of initiatives to encourage new businesses in rural areas in each year since 1997.[71661]
§ Nigel GriffithsThe Small Business Service (SBS) is providing special help for start-ups and micro-businesses through the network of Business Link Operators. This includes businesses in rural areas.
156WSBS is, spending £3 million over 2 years through the Development Fund For Rural Renewal, to help rural business communities that are hard hit by the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease.
Business Link Operators have provided access to a range of advice and support services on average to 100,00 different start-ups and established businesses per quarter in the last 3 years.
Since October 1999, some 8,000 pre and early start businesses have received support from Business Link Operators to assist them in reaching their high growth potential.
In 1998–99 SBS spent £103 million, in 1999–2000 £118 million, in 2000–01 £172 million and in 2001–02 £154 million, on Business Link programme expenditure in all areas. SBS will be spending over £164 million in 2002–03.
We do not hold figures for 1997–98. These figures are from the Expenditure Plans Reports.