HC Deb 12 February 1963 vol 671 cc1107-8
21. Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will invite the National Economic Development Council to examine the desirability and practicality of granting special tax incentives to new industries in specially selected areas of high and persistent unemployment.

Mr. Maudling

The National Economic Development Council will consider all ways of increasing employment in these areas.

Mr. Stratton Mills

Can my right hon. Friend confirm that some such scheme of this type would not necessarily conflict with our international obligations?

Mr. Maudling

I cannot think of any international obligations which would be involved. Generally speaking, international treaties, including the Treaty of Rome, make provision for special assistance for special areas.

Mr. Gordon Walker

Is the N.E.D.C. now to take over the function of formulating a Budget and proposing tax changes and the rest of it? If so, what is left for the right hon. Gentleman to do?

Mr. Mandling

I was asked whether I would invite the Council to consider this. I said that it would consider it. It wants to consider everything affecting economic growth and I have no intention of stopping it.

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