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Small Businesses: Rural Areas

Asked by Mr Lee DillonLiberal DemocratDepartment for Business and TradeTabled Answered 19 November 2025UIN 89904

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps his Department is taking to support diversification in (a) vineyards, (b) farm shops, (c) tourism and (d) other small rural business.

Answered by Blair McDougall

The Department’s flagship plan for Small and Medium Sized Business is giving rural businesses the tools they need to grow and diversify. Our plan will help businesses to tackle late payments, improve access to finance, and streamline licensing. Targeted funding and Growth Hubs will provide tailored advice alongside sector-specific schemes to encourage innovation and local investment. DBT also provides advice and support for businesses via business.gov.uk, including access to the Business Academy and international market teams. These measures help rural businesses to thrive, create jobs, and strengthen local economies.

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