HC Deb 07 August 1972 vol 842 cc1247-8
27. Mr. Scott-Hopkins

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many industrial development certificates have been granted in Derbyshire, both in the grey areas and the non-grey areas, since 1st January, 1972.

Mr. Anthony Grant

Between 1st January and 30th June, 1972, 57 in Derbyshire of which 29 were approved outside the intermediate areas.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Does my hon. Friend accept that there is a certain amount of confusion about the circumstances in which IDCs are given and that there is an underlying uneasiness in Derbyshire that insufficient job opportunities are being given in view of what is happening there? Will my hon. Friend look at the matter with a view to seeing whether the situation can be improved?

Mr. Grant

I take note of the first part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question. Of course, the exact locations of IDCs must be kept confidential. The general picture is much improved since my hon. Friend last asked me about it. Last year the figure was 75, and it shows an encouraging improvement.