Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what recent steps he has taken to enable local authorities to better support small business leaders.

The government is equipping local authorities with the tools to help businesses succeed. Through our devolution agenda, we are empowering local authorities and Mayoral Strategic Authorities with greater responsibility for driving local economic growth. Local leaders will be able to set long-term priorities through Local Growth Plans, and identify the support needed to help businesses start, grow and thrive. The economic outlook for Local Growth Plans was developed through collaboration with local partners, such as engagement with business.

We are also working in partnership with local authorities to deliver support to businesses through our Growth Hub network, a core part of the new Business Growth Service. Local authorities and businesses can also work together through Business Improvement Districts to improve the local trading environment, increase footfall, and reduce crime on the high street.