UK Parliament / Open data

Public Services (Social Enterprise and Social Value) Bill

Absolutely, and that is very much the theme behind the submission from the Federation of Small Businesses on the Bill, which a number of hon. Members will have received. It makes the point:"““The Bill describes social enterprises as businesses 'carried on primarily for a purpose that promotes or improves social or environmental well-being'. While such organisations are undeniably valuable, micro businesses also serve such a function. What sets them apart from social enterprises however is that their primary purpose will be to make a profit and remain in business.””" That is the important part—remaining in business. They cannot do that unless they make a profit, as they are often unable to raise capital. That was the problem with the charitable trust that I mentioned earlier. It was not able to reinvest in the leisure centre, which as a result became rather dowdy and did not meet the needs of the customers.
Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
518 c1222-3 
Session
2010-12
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
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