§ Mr. BlizzardTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much public money is set aside to provide support packages for industries in difficulty. [5452]
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§ Ms HewittThe Department has many schemes to support British Industry in adjusting to change and improving its competitiveness, it is currently reviewing its support to ensure it is best targeted on raising productivity and encouraging an entrepreneurial culture.
Although it is not our policy to provide support packages for failing businesses, support is available to help businesses invest, modernise and diversify.
For example £129 million was set aside in March 2000 for measures to deal with the consequences of the decision by BMW to sell its Rover plant at Longbridge.
The UK Coal Operating Aid Scheme provides for up to £170 million to be paid to the industry over the period between April 2000 and July 2002.
In June 2000 the Government announced a package for UK textiles and clothing to promote competitiveness in areas such as innovation and new technology for which over £6 million has so far been committed.