WEAVER Vale MP Graham Evans has welcomed new figures showing that a government scheme has helped 170 people in Weaver Vale get off out of work benefits and run their own businesses.

The New Enterprise Allowance provides support for people on benefits to establish their own businesses, and has helped more than 46,000 people across the country to set up successful businesses since it was introduced in April 2011.

Graham Evans said: “It’s excellent news that 170 people in Weaver Vale have been helped to get off benefits and to realise their dream of starting their own businesses and being their own boss. Small businesses are a hugely important part of our community and vital to local jobs.

“That’s why supporting small businesses is an important part of the Conservatives’ long-term economic plan.

"There’s more to do, but these figures show that our support is helping people to get off benefits and running their own business, giving them the promise of a better and brighter future.

"And each new job these businesses create is another family in Weaver Vale with the security of a regular pay packet.”