HC Deb 23 July 1969 vol 787 cc1718-9
34. Mr. Alison

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is satisfied that the level of investment in retail distribution is adequate in relation to consumer expenditure; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Dell

Investment intentions as reported to the Board of Trade indicate a rise in investment in 1969 and 1970 both by the distributive and service trades as a whole and by the retail trade itself. There is no reason to suppose that consumption is being frustrated by the lack of investment in retailing.

Mr. Alison

Since the service industries in general and retail distribution in particular are discriminated against by S.E.T and the Government's investment grant policy, is it an accident or design of socialist planning that the service sectors are the principal growth sectors for capital investment under this Government?

Mr Dell

Investment in retail distribution has risen recently. That clearly is welcome to the hon. Gentleman, just as it is welcome to us. I am glad to see that this investment is rising without the assistance of investment grants.