Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps he is taking to ensure that small independent business will be given the same priority as larger corporations such as supermarkets when applying for the Government's Kickstart scheme.

The Department for Work & Pensions encourages employers of all sizes and from all sectors to create new job opportunities for young people through applying for Kickstart funding.

We have continued to engage with stakeholders to improve the scheme and understand any barriers to participation for both employers and young people. We have made it easier for small organisations – including sole traders – to apply through a Kickstart Gateway. Our Kickstart Gateway Direct model allows small employers to place a young person on the Gateway’s PAYE system. One example of a Kickstart Gateway Direct is delivered by the Federation of Small Businesses in partnership with Adecco Working Ventures.