Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, what steps he has taken to increase business formation in (a) Brighton, Kemptown and (b) Lewes District; and if he will make a statement.

Small businesses are vital to the economy and this Government is supporting them in many ways.

Economic stability, lower taxes, deregulation, and a culture of enterprise are vital to business growth. But it is equally important that businesses are able to access the information they need to start-up and grow.

The British Business Bank recently published “The Business Finance Guide: A Journey from Start-Up to Growth” which is available on the British Business Bank Website. It is a unique guide that sets out the main things to consider and outlines sources of finance available to businesses – ranging from start-ups to small and medium-sized enterprises and growing mid-sized companies. The website www.greatbusiness.gov.uk also provides support and advice for businesses trying to grow as well as for entrepreneurs starting out.

In addition to on-line support, the Business Support Helpline is available to provide a quick response on queries about starting a business, or a personalised and in-depth advice service for more complex needs.

For those looking for start-up finance and advice there are Start-Up Loans: 105 loans worth £527,740 have been drawn down in Brighton, Kemptown and Lewes since the scheme began in 2012.