HC Deb 06 February 1964 vol 688 cc1313-4
10. Mr. Lawson

asked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development how many applications have been made by firms in the United States and Canada over the past three months for assistance under the terms of the Local Employment Acts of 1960 and 1963, with a view to their establishing industry in Scotland.

Mr. du Cann

Two such firms have applied in the last three months. In addition several firms with North American connections, already established in Scotland, have applied during the same period.

Mr. Lawson

Is the Minister of State aware that it was being said in Scotland that applications were being made from British and overseas firms at the rate of 30 a week and that there was a backlog of more than 500 such applications, British and overseas? Does not he think that it is high time that he checked up on his Department's dissemination of information, which has certainly raised false hopes in Scotland as to what is intended?

Mr. du Cann

If the hon. Member will be good enough to send me that evidence I shall be delighted to study it. I am satisfied from personal experience, in the United States in particular, that a good deal of useful work is being done to attract American firms to Scotland. I have seen this work being done on the spot in the United States and I am delighted to say that it is having some success.