HC Deb 31 March 2004 vol 419 cc1403-4W
Mrs. Curtis-Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps her Department has taken to improve the start-up advice available to entrepreneurs. [163314]

Nigel Griffiths

The government has a range of services and initiatives in place aimed at helping those thinking of starting a business. A comprehensive range of advice, information and support is delivered through the network of Business Link Operators and its partners. The Businesslink.gov website contains tailored advice and information aimed at those thinking about starting a business. This includes a new online training directory to help people thinking of starting a business, or in their first year of trading, to access training in order to innovate, improve, grow and be more competitive. Steps have also been taken to address concerns expressed by those starting in business about understanding their responsibilities with the publication of the 'No Nonsense Guide to Government rules for setting and running your business'. This brings together in one place all the rules and regulations that affect start-up businesses.