asked the Secretary of State for Industry what specific steps he is at present taking to encourage the growth and expansion of small firms in England.
Small firms in England are eligible for a wide range of Government assistance, which is generally available throughout the United Kingdom to encourage the growth and expansion of firms of every size. In particular, most of the sectoral schemesin operation under Section 8 of the Industry Act 1972 contain special provisions for assistance towards the cost of consultancy studies for small firms; in two schemes, the mimimum size for investment projects has been reduced; and 108 individual terrace or nursery units for occupation by small firms are being built. Small firms can also call on the services of the small firms information centres at any stage of their development, and those located in the South-West Region may also take advantage of the experimental counselling scheme which is available there.