asked the Secretary of State for Industry what has been the cost of the Small Firms Counselling Service for the London and south-east region and the number of persons to be em- ployed; and what are the services they will render.

The cost of the Small Firms Counselling Service for the London and south-east region so far this year amounts to approximately £20,000. The number of counsellors engaged is 18, including a counselling adviser. They are all experienced business men who provide a service to help owners and managers of small businesses identify management problem areas and discuss ways of increasing efficiency.