Written question asked by Lord Callaghan of Cardiff (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 22 January 1997. It was answered by James Paice (Conservative) on Wednesday, 22 January 1997 on behalf of the Department for Education and Employment.

Dept for Education and Employment

Question: If she will comment regarding the adequacy of training avail able to small firms.

Answer: Mr. Callaghan: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if she will make a statement regarding the adequacy of training available to small firms. [10604] Mr. Paice: Small firms can access training through local employer-led bodies such as training and enterprise councils and business links. TECs' specific small firms initiatives have helped nearly 13,000 small firms develop their training effort in the last 18 months alone. Recently published statistics show that, nationally, 84 per cent. of smaller firms have provided training for their employees, using a variety of methods to suit their circumstances. As a direct response to business needs, Government undertook a comprehensive review last year, aimed at simplifying support to businesses. A key outcome for my Department of this review is the establishment of the local competitiveness budget from April 1997. This will continue to provide wide-ranging advice and support to local firms through TECs and business links.

Secondary information