To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what budget has been set aside to secure the work and operation of the New Business Ambassadors Group; from which departmental budget these resources will be drawn; and whether the ambassadors will receive any payment for their services. (225955)

In financial year 2008-09 up to £100,000 has been internally reallocated from within UK Trade and investment (UKTI) resources to support this work overseas. Funding was found from in-year recyclable efficiencies. Within UKTI work has been reorganised internally and redistributed to establish a secretariat to support the business ambassadors.

The business ambassadors will receive no payment for their services, however, reasonable expenses will be allowed. The business ambassadors may make up to one dedicated trip a year to support the Government in promoting the UK around the world, but it is anticipated that the majority of their work as business ambassadors will take place within their own travel schedules, in order to obtain the maximum public benefit.