HC Deb 04 July 1961 vol 643 c1219
6. Mr. Watkins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many applications were received in the latest convenient period for assistance from the Development Commission for the extension of industrial activities in each of the rural counties of Wales; how many were granted; how many were not taken up; and what was the amount in each case.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Five applications for assistance were received in the year ending 30th June, 1961: two for Radnor and one each for Anglesey, Brecon and Cardigan. Four were approved and one, received last week, is under consideration. One, which had been approved, has not been taken up.

It is not possible to state the amounts of money which will be sanctioned because tenders have not yet been submitted.

Mr. Watkins

Will the Chancellor ask his Department to consider again whether publicity ought to be given about the funds available from the Development Commission so that industrialists may know about this? I understand that this is known to industrialists in Ireland through the Chancellor's colleague in the Board of Trade, but not in Wales through the Development Commission.

Mr. Lloyd

I am in complete sympathy with what the hon. Member has said. He is a member of the Mid-Wales Industrial Development Association, which is taking active steps in the matter. I will certainly ask my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade to see that his officials co-operate to the utmost of their capacity. I understand that they are doing so, but I will certainly raise the matter again.

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