HC Deb 02 April 2001 vol 366 cc3-4W
Ms Harman

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will set out, with statistical information relating as directly as possible to the London Borough of Southwark, the effects on the London Borough of Southwark of his Department's policies and actions since May 2 1997. [155975]

Mr. Caborn

The London Borough of Southwark has benefited from a range of initiatives since May 1997. Direct business advice and support to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) has been provided by the DTI through core programmes and the Business Links. While my Department does not collect detailed statistical information on a borough basis, over 2,900 requests for advice, information and support from SMEs in Southwark have been handled by the Business Links since May 1997.

During the same period, grants totalling over £127,000 have been awarded to SMEs for innovation and technology under the Smart scheme and a contribution of £67,000 was made towards a TCS programme for a small software company.

All wards in the constituency are eligible for the Enterprise Grant Scheme which was introduced in 2000.