§ Mr. Frank FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what was the total Government expenditure on the small firms initiative in each year of the programme's operation; and if she will make a statement on the programme. [8220]
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§ Mr. PaiceTotal expenditure on skills for small businesses in 1995–96 was £6.178 million. Expenditure in 1996–97 currently stands at £5.924 million. Skills for small businesses was established as a three-year initiative. Following a comprehensive Government review, this initiative will be absorbed into the local competitiveness budget from April 1997. This will provide wide-ranging advice and support to local firms by training and enterprise councils and business links.