HC Deb 20 May 1986 vol 98 cc173-4
14. Mr. Dickens

asked the Paymaster General how many local enterprise agencies have applied for grants since October 1985.

Mr. Trippier

Sixty one applications have been received from local enterprise agencies for funding under the new local enterprise agency grant scheme, which came into operation on 1 April this year. Prior to this date, and during the financial year 1985–86, 55 local enterprise agencies were given modest financial support under a pump-priming scheme run by my Department.

Mr. Dickens

I very much welcome that news. Will my hon. Friend be more specific about Rochdale and Oldham in my constituency?

Mr. Trippier

I can be specific. The local enterprise agencies that are operating in the Rochdale and Oldham area would certainly qualify for the new local enterprise agency grant scheme. I shall be happy to receive the applications when they are put together in the form of a business plan.