HC Deb 15 July 1999 vol 335 cc272-3W
26. Mr. Kidney

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry in what ways the proposed Small Business Service will help to reduce compliance costs for small businesses. [90034]

Mr. Wills

The Small Business Service will have a clear task to help reduce the burden of regulation on small firms wherever possible. It will work closely with the Regulatory Impact Unit to ensure that the impact of proposed regulations on small business is properly understood and considered at all levels of Government. It will work to ensure that small businesses have access to clear and straightforward information and guidance on regulatory requirements. It will also aim to identify practical ways in which it can help smaller business to cope with regulation.

The Government's proposals are set out in detail in the consultation document on the Small Business Service published on 30 June, copies of which have been placed in the Library of the House.