§ Mr. Stephen O'BrienTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what discussions officials from his Department have had with small businesses regarding 267W expanding training and management courses: and if he will publish the research he has commissioned regarding a proposed expansion; [85961]
(2) what discussions officials from his Department have had with representatives of the banking industry concerning the University for Industry, and if he will make a statement. [85957]
§ John HealeyThe Government welcome a proposal from high street banks to provide leadership support for prospective and existing businesses by creating a virtual university for small businesses with ready access to information, advice, support and mentoring through the internet and more specialist training courses. The Government are currently in discussion with a number of banks to develop the detail, and will consult with small businesses as the proposal develops.