To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many businesses have been assisted in Cumbria by Business Link or its replacement agency in each of the last five years. (92356)

The number of businesses assisted by Business Link in Cumbria in each of the last five years is as follows:

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what his plans are for the new business advisory service which will replace Business Link in Cumbria. (92422)

Following a review of current activities, the North West Development Agency has decided that the Business Link service in the north west should move from the current five sub regional suppliers to a single regional provider from April 2007. Services to business will still be delivered at the appropriate local level. Priorities and strategy for the future Business Link service will be determined by the new Regional Economic Strategy and Business Link will provide a consistent service accessible to businesses across the region.