Businesses in Rural Areas 2024-01-25
2024-01-25
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the economic challenges faced by rural businesses in his constituency.
What steps her Department is taking to support businesses in rural areas?
The Government provide extensive business support for all businesses, including those in rural areas. With other Departments, we focus on access to energy and work with the Department for Education on apprenticeships. We also have the British Business Bank's recovery loan scheme and the Start Up Loans company, which helps businesses invest and grow.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific steps directly addressing rural business needs were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlights the potential economic boost from a spaceport in Sutherland and offshore wind projects, stressing the need for transport infrastructure.
The Secretary of State will be aware that the Sutherland spaceport could be a fantastic boost for local businesses. The public service obligation for Wick airport runs out soon with no word on renewal. What advice does she have for me?
The SNP-led Scottish Government are responsible for much of the investment. However, I take his point about infrastructure and am prepared to look at what my Department can do to support him.
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Assessment & feedback
Infrastructure needs were deflected by blaming the Scottish Government.
Blaming Another Government
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about unnecessary bridge closures due to lack of transparency in wind speed data provided by the Met Office.
I think that my right hon. Friend is doing a great job for rural businesses. However, the Met Office, which is under her stewardship, should publish wind speeds on its app so businesses are not disrupted unnecessarily.
The matter falls under the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. We can raise it with DSIT colleagues to ensure they look at it quickly.
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Assessment & feedback
Responsibility was deflected to another department.
Blaming Another Department
Response accuracy