§ Mr. ChidgeyTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what measures he has put in place to ensure that small businesses can complete all their licensing requirements and inform themselves about relevant regulation in one office. [50015]
§ Dr. David ClarkThe Access Business Group, chaired by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary, Office of Public Service, aims to make the regulatory system more transparent, accessible and helpful. The Group is also looking at the provision of integrated information, advice and guidance to ease the burden on business. The use of Information Technology to help businesses fulfil their obligation is part of this work.
In December, I launched the "intelligent" form which enables people to register as self-employed at a bank. This model has now been extended with the launch of the Post Office-led "Open for Business" pilot which enables people to register as self-employed in a post office, library, a community based "telecottage" or local government office. The "intelligent" form is just the start. The system proves the technology and we should eventually have electronic forms for people to apply for licences.