§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what assistance is currently made available to young people with regard to start up costs for new businesses. [48528]
§ Mrs. Roche[holding answer 6 July 1998]: Business Link partnerships have a range of advisory services to suit the needs of all businesses. Start-up and micro-firms can benefit from access to high quality information and advice, guidance, counselling, and related services. An important feature of Business Link is the informed referral to other services provided locally by partners or other business support organisations. Young people starting a business will usually be referred to the local Enterprise Agency partner or the Prince's Youth Business Trust (PYBT). The PYBT helps young people set up in business by providing grants and loans and other help, including counselling and mentoring. Business Link partners will be aware of, or directly involved in, any local projects or schemes for start-up businesses. These will include New Deal, Single Regeneration Budget Challenge, and European structural funds. The New Deal for young unemployed people provides extensive help and guidance for those wishing to enter self-employment.