§ 24. Mr. MillerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to promote enterprise among disadvantaged communities. [139556]
§ Mr. CabornMy Department recognises the importance of promoting enterprise among disadvantaged communities. The Small Business Service's remit includes tackling social exclusion, by ensuring that Business Links' plans take account of the needs of their local communities and by utilising the Phoenix Fund to promote enterprise in deprived areas. We offer regional selective assistance to eligible investment projects and, in conjunction with HM Treasury and the Inland Revenue, we are considering the recommendations of the Social Investment Task Force on ways of introducing new sources of private and institutional investment into disadvantaged communities.