HC Deb 25 March 1999 vol 328 c360W
Mr. Pollard

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he plans to issue guidance to small businesses which want to apply for assistance from the Small Business Service. [78628]

Mr. Wills

A consultation paper on the specific role and functions of the Small Business Service will be published shortly with a view to the new service being set-up and running later in the year. In the meantime, a wide range of government support for smaller firms can be accessed through the national network of Business Links.

Mr. Pollard

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects to announce the appointment of the Chief Executive of the new Small Business Service. [78626]

Mr. Wills

It is hoped to make an announcement about the appointment of the Chief Executive of the Small Business Service in the Autumn.