Oral Answers to Questions
Debate between Helen Grant and Lord Pickles
Mrs Helen Grant (Maidstone and The Weald) (Con)
Are the Government’s excellent proposals for troubled families being embraced by local authorities throughout the country?
Mr Pickles
I am delighted to report that all 152 principal local authorities signed up last month. I am also delighted at the amount of progress being made and delighted that at least some Opposition Members have been more than helpful. It is our first big chance to do something about this serious situation.
Oral Answers to Questions
Debate between Helen Grant and Lord Pickles
Mrs Helen Grant (Maidstone and The Weald) (Con)
T9. Many companies in my constituency are finding it hard to cope financially at the moment. What action will the Minister take to boost local enterprise and local business in Kent?
Mr Pickles
I am sure my hon. Friend will be delighted with today’s announcement of the regional growth fund expansion in east Kent, including the funding of small and medium-sized enterprises. This supports delivery of critical infrastructure to provide jobs, and at £40 million it is one of the highest awards. I am delighted that the regional growth fund is helping investor technology, and we are seeing the start-up of a local enterprise partnership at the Sandwich site to deal with those questions relating to Pfizer.