HC Deb 02 December 1970 vol 807 cc392-3W
Mr. John Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he consulted the Scottish Economic Planning Council about the abolition of investment grants and the proposed abolition of the regional employment premium.

Mr. Gordon Campbell

The intention announced in our manifesto to replace investment grants by other forms of grant and by tax allowances and eventually to discontinue the regional employment premium were known, and referred to, in the discussions on employment and regional development.

Budgetary matters, such as rates of tax allowance, were not, of course, appropriate matters for consultation.

Following the procedure established by the last Secretary of State, the actual proceedings of the council are confidential.

As regards the regional employment premium, my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced in October that it was to continue for four years.

Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received to date against the proposal to abolish investment grants; and what reply he has sent.

Mr. Gordon Campbell

None.