HC Deb 12 July 1988 vol 137 cc129-30W
Sir John Biggs-Davison

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement about the forthcoming enterprise in action conference.

Mr. Viggers

The first European enterprise conference is to be held at Queen's University, Belfast, from 28 September to 1 October 1988. In addition to support from the European Commission's small firms task force, sponsorship for the event has been attracted from the private sector. More than 300 potential delegates, mainly from Europe but also from further afield, have expressed their interest in the event. The main aims of the conference are the promotion of Northern Ireland as a centre of excellence in enterprise development and the sharing of ideas and experience on small business support with delegates from many parts of Europe.

It will also provide an excellent opportunity to demonstrate the Province's potential as a major conference and tourism destination.