HC Deb 05 March 1973 vol 852 cc23-4
24. Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will now undertake to publish an early assessment of regional policy and its contribution to employment in Scotland and other development and special development areas.

Mr. Peter Walker

I shall in due course be publishing a report on the discharge of my functions under the Industry Act for the financial year ending 31st March 1973.

Mr. Sillars

That is not quite an answer to the Question. Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that any assessment of regional policy is bound to include mention of the Hunterston development? Is he aware of the grave and growing concern in Scotland that the Government will continue stalling over Hunterston and that we shall finish two years hence with a green field site which contains nothing but green field? When will the Government pull their finger out and get major development going at Hunterston?

Mr. Walker

That is an entirely different question. On the matter of the use of the Industry Act, the Hunterston project, as with other projects, will be considered on its merits.

Mr. Lambie

What recommendation has the right hon. Gentleman's Department made to the Secretary of State for Scotland on the planning application of the Chevron Oil Company and ORSI? Will the right hon. Gentleman confirm that his Department will reject the biased report of the Hunterston Development Company published today?

Mr. Walker

That is an entirely different question. If the hon. Gentleman wants an answer, perhaps he will put down a Question.

Mr. Benn

Has the Secretary of State had any further thoughts about continuation of the regional employment premium which obviously plays a very large part in the maintenance of employment and which finds support among a large number of industrialists as well as universal acclaim among the trade unionists and others involved?

Mr. Walker

The phasing out of the regional employment premium is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer. He is considering it and will eventually make a statement.