6. Mr. Fred Evansasked the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received alleging the misuse by firms in Wales of the system of Government industrial incentives.
§ Mr. John MorrisI have received five such representations in recent months, all of which have been or are being investigated.
Mr. EvansIs my right hon. and learned Friend aware that very serious allegations have been made against firms in the Rhymney Valley by the Chairman 8 of the Welsh National Party and that these have received extensive Press publicity, although, apparently, the courage to name the firms publicly was absent?
Is the Secretary of State further aware of the damage that can result from creating a blanket kind of suspicion on firms showing willingness to come to Wales and bring employment prospects? Will the Secretary of State, therefore, cause to be placed in the Library of the House of Commons copies of the representations made to him, and will he expedite investigations, which I understand have been inaugurated by his hon. Friend—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. Four questions are enough for anyone in a supplementary question.
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. The hon. Gentleman has had his ration. Fair play.
§ Mr. MorrisSince I took over responsibility in Wales for assistance under Section 7 of the Industry Act last July, I have received representations naming only three firms. I have no evidence of widespread misuse. In two cases no evidence was found to substantiate the allegations. The remaining case involves an allegation that falls within the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry, who is at present looking into the matter. I have nothing to add.
§ Mr. WigleyWill the right hon. and learned Gentleman confirm that details of the case referred to by the hon. Member for Caerphilly (Mr. Evans) have been submitted to himself and to the Minister of State, Department of Industry, and that that case is being investigated in detail? Therefore, the accusation by the hon. Member for Caerphilly against the Chairman of Plaid Cymru is unfounded.
§ Mr. MorrisI have no interest in the Chairman of Plaid Cymru, either to defend or to prosecute him. I have received representations. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry has received representations. Those cases which have been investigated have not been substantiated, and one is being investigated. In fairness to everybody concerned, it is right that the investigation should continue.