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24/06/2003
SMEs encouraged to bid for government contracts
Two pilot schemes were launched today to make it easier for SMEs owned by ethnic minorities to gain access to government contracts.
Chief Secretary to the Treasury Paul Boateng outlined details of the pilots in the West Midlands and Haringey, North London, when he addressed the Ethnic Minority Business Forum in London.
A high proportion of the 290,000 SMEs in the West Midlands are owned by people from ethnic minorities, whilst 47% of businesses in Haringey are ethnic minority owned.
Chief Secretary Paul Boateng said: "Government has been listening to the concerns of small businesses and is determined to ensure that the role they perform in the local economy is given proper recognition. Black and ethnic businesses are central to this in many parts of the UK.
"We have acted to help businesses access government contracts more successfully. These plots will help test solutions on the ground in our business communities to make sure that SMEs are helped to deal with issues such as bidding costs, advertising, information, processes and paperwork."
The pilots attempt to simplify the methods of bidding for government work; streamline the procurement processes and allow SMEs to be considered for government contracts even if they cannot produce three-year audited accounts.
Both pilots will run into the Spring of 2005 and an evaluation will be carried out within 12 months.
(GMcG)
Chief Secretary to the Treasury Paul Boateng outlined details of the pilots in the West Midlands and Haringey, North London, when he addressed the Ethnic Minority Business Forum in London.
A high proportion of the 290,000 SMEs in the West Midlands are owned by people from ethnic minorities, whilst 47% of businesses in Haringey are ethnic minority owned.
Chief Secretary Paul Boateng said: "Government has been listening to the concerns of small businesses and is determined to ensure that the role they perform in the local economy is given proper recognition. Black and ethnic businesses are central to this in many parts of the UK.
"We have acted to help businesses access government contracts more successfully. These plots will help test solutions on the ground in our business communities to make sure that SMEs are helped to deal with issues such as bidding costs, advertising, information, processes and paperwork."
The pilots attempt to simplify the methods of bidding for government work; streamline the procurement processes and allow SMEs to be considered for government contracts even if they cannot produce three-year audited accounts.
Both pilots will run into the Spring of 2005 and an evaluation will be carried out within 12 months.
(GMcG)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
