HC Deb 23 February 1970 vol 796 cc799-800
10. Mr. Dewar

asked the Minister of Technology what representations he has received from Scottish organisations advocating a change from the present system of investment incentives in the developmen areas to free depreciation and tax allowances; and what replies he has sent.

Mr. Varley

None, Sir.

Mr. Dewar

Will my hon. Friend accept that this demonstrates the very widespread satisfaction in Scotland with the Government's efforts in regional development and the very great degree of disquiet over the kind of generalities talked on regional development in certain Tory quarters?

Mr. Varley

Many people would like to know exactly what the policies of right hon. and hon. Gentlemen opposite are on development areas.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

Since investment grants are designed to attract capital-intensive industries to the development areas, is not it only natural that their availability should have coincided in Scotland with the loss of 67,000 male jobs? Will the Minister confirm that the Government's enthusiasm for investment grants demonstrates their desire to achieve an even faster rate of rundown in male jobs in Scotland in the future?

Mr. Varley

I reject all that. Hon. Gentlemen opposite have a tendency to underestimate the situation and the real structural changes taking place in Scotland and the regions generally.