§ 68. Mr. Roweasked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he is satisfied with the procedures employed to assess the potential viability of schemes proposed by applicants for the enterprise allowance.
§ Mr. Alan ClarkI am satisfied that the procedures used are adequate to ensure a proper use of taxpayers' money without allowing attempts at assessment of commercial viability by officials to intrude on the individual judgment of applicants.
There are several points at which the applicants are made aware of the responsibilities they are taking on. All applicants attend an information session at which the scheme is explained and advice given by small firms service counsellors. Participants on the scheme have access to free business advice from a wide range of sources, including the small firms service.
In addition, applicants must be able to show that they are able to invest at least £1,000 in their businesses. This provides an indication of commitment and helps ensure that resources are available to support the new enterprises.