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A government minister has emphasised that a streamlining of services will take "some of the hassle" out of getting help to run a business.
Margaret Hodge, small business minister, announced this week that the number of business support schemes in the UK would be slashed from over 3,000 to under 100.
Ms Hodge explained: "We want to take some of the hassle out of getting help to run a business.
"By cutting down the number of support schemes without cutting the amount of support we believe we can do that.
"Simpler, easier to use and understand support while cutting back on unnecessary duplication. Its simple common sense for both business and the tax-payer."
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the proposals would address "the wide concern among small firms who are confused" by the current set-up.
The government currently spends £2.6 billion a year on support schemes for small businesses which provide advice on a wide range of issues including company formation, tax planning and asset protection.
It now intends to use the network of Business Link offices, the governments own small business information and advice service, to ensure that the remaining schemes are better targeted and deliver good value for money.
Business groups generally reacted positively to the change in approach.
David Frost, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: "Its about time that business support finally does what it says and supports business."
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