Nadhim Zahawi MP has welcomed new figures that show the Government’s Start-Up Loans Scheme has helped 30 people in Stratford-on-Avon set up their own business. The Start-Up Loans scheme provides loans and mentoring support to people who want to start their own businesses. Across the UK, 25,000 Start-Up Loans have now been awarded, worth a total of nearly £130 million and generating more than 32,000 new jobs. In Stratford-on-Avon 30 entrepreneurs have received loans through the scheme, at a combined value of £221,765. Across the West Midlands as a whole, 2,118 loans have been made, at a combined value of £10, 334,845. Better access to start-up finance is a key part of the Conservatives' long-term economic plan to make Britain the best place in the world to set up and grow a business. Commenting, Nadhim said: ‘As a former entrepreneur, I know just how difficult the search for start-up finance can be. This scheme is all about helping people get great business ideas off the ground and I’m delighted to see it at work in Stratford-on-Avon. The 30 people who’ve benefitted from a Start-Up Loan should be warmly congratulated. By setting up new businesses they’re creating jobs, growth and opportunity for our community.’