HC Deb 05 March 2004 vol 418 c1196W
Mr. Stephen O'Brien

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry pursuant to her answer of 2 February 2004,Official Report, column 647W, on the National Business Angels Network, if she will make a statement on the effectiveness of the National Business Angels Network. [155358]

Nigel Griffiths

An external evaluation of the National Business Angels Network took place early in 2003 that examined all aspects of its operation, including its matchmaking activities. The Department no longer funds this element of the National Business Angels Network's operations.

Mr. Stephen O'Brien

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the role of the National Business Angels Network in the Single Pathway to Market initiative; and what(a) administrative and (b) programme funding it will receive from her Department for each year between 2004 and 2008. [157199]

Nigel Griffiths

The National Business Angels Network is a private company and its role in the Single Pathway to Market is entirely a matter for the company and its Board. The Department is not providing any funding for this initiative.