Around 240 jobs will go at regional quango Business Link West Midlands after a Government Minister today announced it is going to be axed.

Business and enterprise minister Mark Prisk has revealed in an interview that regional business links, set up to advise companies, will be wound down and closed.

He wants to replace them with a central online call centre and public sector advice services.

Business Link West Midlands had its contract renewed by regional development agency Advantage West Midlands last year, extending it until March 2012.

Under Mr Prisk’s plans, it will be shut down after than, with the loss of around 240 staff and the closure of its offices on Quinton Business Park in Birmingham.

Last year the £40 million West Midlands quango saw its boss quit after just 16 months, to be replaced by current chief executive Lorraine Holmes.

She said today: “It is disappointing that Mr Prisk is choosing to make policy in the media without due consideration to the consequences for our employees and the future of the service.

“It is also disappointing that no consultation has yet taken place. Staff are committed to continuing to provide a high level of service to our customers, despite the uncertainty.”