§ 39. Mr. Smallasked the President of the Board of Trade how many firm commitments have now been made by industrialists wishing to develop in Scotland, following the recent Budget proposals.
§ Mr. ErrollSince the Budget the Board of Trade has received 101 applications for assistance under Sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Local Employment Act and 49 provisional applications for the new 10 per cent. grant on plant and machinery in respect of projects in Scotland. I cannot say how many of these are firm commitments by the industrialists concerned.
§ Mr. SmallWill the President of the Board of Trade indicate what percentage of the applications are from Scottish-based industrialists?
§ Mr. ErrollI should be glad to send the hon. Member that information if he wishes.
Mr. BaxterHow long does it take the right hon. Gentleman to make up his mind whether to agree to an industrialist starting a business or a factory in a development area?
§ Mr. ErrollThat depends on a number of factors, including the viability of the project, as I am anxious to ensure that no project on the move to Scotland turns out to be one which is likely to be a flop.
§ 40. Mr. Smallasked the President of the Board of Trade how many development districts in Scotland have received no new employment since their scheduling.
§ Mr. ErrollIndustrial development certificates have been issued for projects in all but one of the Scottish development districts since they were added to the list.
§ Mr. SmallHas the President of the Board of Trade any proposals to assist that particular development district by Government assistance or Government advance factories?
§ Mr. ErrollI will look into that point.