§ 35. Mr. Sackvilleasked the Paymaster General what training he intends to introduce to encourage the development of small firms.
§ Mr. TrippierThe Manpower Services Commission's adult training programmes currently include a range of measures which encourage the development of small firms. The Commission has been asked to refocus these programmes to give greater emphasis to small firms and enterprise because of the special need to stimulate these activities. In 1985–86 the training for enterprise programme, which is the principal small firms programme, cost £13.6 million and in 1986–87 expenditure on it will rise to £18.3 million. This additional expenditure is part of an overall switch of £20 million towards small firms, within the total adult training programme budget of £259 million, as a result of refocusing in 1986–87. The Manpower Services Commission will review this autumn the scope for further action.
I am anxious to see development in training systems, such as open learning and computer based training packages, since they may open up more accessible training for small business men than conventional training courses. I have also asked MSC to develop proposals to encourage more enterprise allowance scheme recipients to take advantage of training opportunities.
§ 117. Mrs. Virginia Bottomleyasked the Paymaster General what progress has been made in reducing bureaucratic burdens on small firms. Mr. Trippier: The Government have made considerable progress in following up the proposals in the White Paper "Lifting the Burden" to reduce the administrative requirements on business and particularly small firms. We intend to produce a second White Paper reporting progress and making further proposals on deregulation later this year.