§ 15. Mr. Leadbitterasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the amounts by which he plans to reduce expenditure in the Northern Region for 1974–75.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerExpenditure by my Department in the assisted areas, of which the Northern Region forms part, is expected to increase in 1974–5. The amount depends upon what eligible projects become available under the 1972 Industry Act.
§ Mr. LeadbitterWill the Secretary of State now relieve the Northern Region of the great uncertainty which exists over the Government's policy on the regional employment premium? It represents a considerable element in an industrialist's programme of future investment, and a firmer decision than has hitherto been given by the Government would be welcome at this juncture.
§ Mr. WalkerI have no decision to announce today but, knowing the hon. Member's interest in developments in the Northern Region, I am sure he was pleased to hear the major announcement at lunch time today of considerably increased investment there by ICI.
§ Mr. WilkinsonDoes not my right hon. Friend agree that the decision of the Government to maintain active regional policies at a time of great financial economic stringency overall is evidence of their determination to unite the nation and to reduce the disparities which exist between the various regions?
§ Mr. WalkerYes, Sir. I think that perhaps both sides of the House would now agree how outstandingly successful the 1972 Industry Act has been.
§ Mr. DormandHas the Secretary of State seen the recent independent economic report and national survey which showed that the Northern Region has suffered more from inflation than any other part of the country? Will he take due note of that and take the necessary action when public expenditure cuts are formulated?
§ Mr. WalkerI hope that the hon. Member will in his turn do all he can to support the Government's counter-inflation policy.