HC Deb 01 December 1969 vol 792 cc895-6
10. Mr. David Howell

asked the Minister of Technology when he will publish the results of the study of effectiveness of investment grants announced on 4th February of this year.

The Minister of State, Ministry of Technology (Mr. Eric Varley)

I have nothing to add to the answer given to the hon. Gentleman on 10th November, 1969.—[Vol. 791, c. 14–16.]

Mr. Howell

Does the hon. Gentleman recall that it is now almost a year since the Select Committee on Estimates called for a new study of this unruly and uncontrollable element in public spending? Is it not worrying that even now we still do not seem anywhere near getting on with this study?

Mr. Varley

It was started in the Board of Trade in February of this year. A good deal of work has been done, and the C.B.I, is being approached about the study and the forms which will go out to individual firms.

Mr. Barnett

Has my hon. Friend seen the report in The Times today that his Department is carrying out a study of all Government aid? Does that include R.E.P.? If not, would it not be as well to include it, bearing in mind at the same time that the seven-year guarantee has little meaning if the incentive is ineffective?

Mr. Varley

This study does not include R.E.P. I will bear in mind my hon. Friend's suggestion.

Mr. Speaker

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

Is it not extraordinary that the Minister should have waited——

Mr. Speaker

Order. Not a bit of it. Mr. Bruce-Gardyne to ask Question No. 11.