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Employment Minister Tony McNulty will today urge local companies to take advantage of the Government-backed support on offer to help them through the economic downturn, at a regional lending roadshow in Durham.

Mr McNulty will say how Government action is increasing the lending available from the banks and easing cash flow pressures by allowing businesses to delay payment of taxes and business rates.

The regional roadshow at the Radisson SAS Hotel in Durham is one of a series of nationwide events bringing together Government Ministers, representatives from the banks, small business owners and experts from the Business Link advice service.

Businesses will be able to raise lending issues affecting their companies and will be given information and advice on sources of additional lending and support from the banks and Business Link advisers.

Employment Minister Tony McNulty said: "Today's meeting brings banks and businesses together to improve understanding of the pressures on business, and the support banks are able to provide.

"I know that many local businesses are feeling the pressure, as cash flow has become tighter and access to credit has been squeezed.

"The Government understands the vital contribution businesses in the North East make to the UK economy. That's why we have taken decisive action to get credit flowing again and why it's crucial that businesses understand what support is available to them from banks and the Government, and how they can access it."

Information on the Government's "Real Help for Businesses" support package is at: http://www.businesslink.gov.uk and http://www.realhelpnow.gov.uk