§ Mr. David ShawTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage if he will make a statement on the achievements of(a) his policies and (b) his Department in helping small businesses over the last 12 months as against the previous 12 months; if he will publish the performance indicators by which his Department monitors those achievements and the statistical results of such monitoring; and if he will set out his targets to help small businesses in the next year.
§ Mr. SproatThe Government recognise the crucial role played by small firms in the United Kingdom economy. The Government help small firms by keeping inflation and interest rates low and by reducing legislation and administrative burdens. They provide direct assistance where appropriate and are currently establishing a network of business links to provide high-quality business support across the country.
During the past year, my Department has reviewed regulations from whatever source on the business sectors in which it has a policy interest. I also commissioned an inquiry into the impact of regulations on the tourism industry and held a series of meetings with ministerial colleagues to discuss its findings. As a result, the Health and Safety Executive has issued guidance, "Maintaining Portable Electrical Equipment in Hotels and Tourist Accommodation" and my Department hopes to co-operate with the HSE in producing further guidance on health and safety at work regulations for those in the arts, leisure and tourism industry.
In addition, the national lottery, which will begin in November, will benefit many small businesses; in 103W particular, the thousands of small retailers which will soon be selling tickets, and businesses offering ancillary services to the lottery operator.
My Department intends to continue its work to reduce legislation and administrative burdens on business, and to improve its links and consultation arrangements with businesses operating within the areas where I have a policy interest.