PENDLE MP Andrew Stephenson has welcomed Government plans to make it easier for people on Jobseekers’ Allowance to set up their own business.

More than 8,180 new businesses have been set up since April 2011 thanks to the New Enterprise Allowance. Those who produce a viable business plan will also be able to get access to £2,000 worth of financial support from day one, slashed from the previous six-month wait.

Mr Stephenson said: “This Government is dedicated to ensuring that all those who want to work hard and get on in life are given the skills they need to compete and thrive in a global economy. The New Enterprise Allowance is making it quicker and easier for people to set up their own businesses.

“This allowance has already helped a number of people across Pendle and now it can help even more.”