09 Jun 2005
Scotland's new Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State has hailed enterprise crucial to a flexible and modern economy.
Addressing Stirling's first ever HM Revenue and Customs roadshow today David Cairns said prospects were good for continued strength and stability in the Scottish economy.
"Enterprise is the key to our national prosperity, vital to delivering rising standards of living and instrumental in enabling Government to deliver world class public services.
"We are striving to create the environment that enables business and enterprise to grow and to prosper. One of the most significant ways we can do this is by providing the continuing macroeconomic stability that business and individuals need to be able to invest and make decisions about the future."
Mr Cairns added: "As well as providing this stability, we are creating the right climate for business and ensuring that the regulatory framework places no unnecessary burdens on business.
"Events like this bring together a wealth of expertise, and are a great way for people to get together and share diverse experiences."
The HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) Business Advice Open Day, sponsored by the Scottish Government in partnership with Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley is abing held in the "Atrium" within the Andrew Miller Building, Stirling University campus.
HMRC Business Head Fred Finney, said: "We are pleased to be working once again with the Scottish Government and other partners such as Business Gateway to deliver a Business Advice Open Day, on this occasion in Stirling.
"With Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley as our much valued local partner, we are working together to deliver high quality information and advice for business in Stirling and Central Scotland. HMRC will provide visitors to the event with a range of seminars on tax and VAT issues, in one place for the first time."
Robert Pollock, executive director, Scottish Enterprise Forth Valley, commented:
"This business advice open day provides a rare and excellent opportunity for local businesses to access the myriad of information and advice that is available from a wide range of public sector organisations under the one roof.
"The diversity of topics covered throughout the day means that there is something for everyone - our Business Gateway advisers will be on hand and will be delivering complementary seminars on topics from basic business start-up advice to e-security and workforce development."
Up to 30 information stands are supporting the 20-presentation seminar programme, providing real choice for all businesses in the region. Specialist seminars on sports and leisure clubs & associations from the VAT perspective and Research and Development Tax Credits will be running during the day.