Written question asked by Baroness Seccombe (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Vadera (Labour) on Monday, 6 July 2009.

Sir Alan Sugar

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the Enterprise Champion, Sir Alan Sugar, will be required to consult the Minister for Economic Competitiveness and Small Business, Baroness Vadera, on the exercise of his responsibilities.

Answer: The Enterprise Champion will offer independent advice to government from a business perspective drawing on his own experience and on consultations around the country. He will raise awareness among entrepreneurs and businesses about the practical help that is available from Government and other sources. He will also champion the cause of viable small companies with banks, encouraging lending to continue during the recession. As Minister for Economic Competitiveness, Small Business and Enterprise, I expect to be the champion's main ministerial contact point for the advice he provides.

Secondary information