HC Deb 17 July 1972 vol 841 cc3-4W
21. Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he proposes to arrange for talks with the trade unions and employers' associations in the Yorkshire and Humberside region about selective financial assistance to industry in that region.

Mr. Chataway

My right hon. Friend has no immediate plans for such talks. I discussed the subject when I met representatives of trade unions and employers on my visit to Leeds on 25th May.

Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what criteria he will employ and what conditions will be attached in the application of the new selective financial measures to the Yorkshire and Humberside Region.

Mr. Chataway

The broad forms and scope of regional selective assistance have been outlined by my right hon. Friend and by myself in the debates on the Industry Bill. Further details, including guidance to industry, will be made available as soon as possible.

Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether the distribution of the new selective financial measures in the Yorkshire and Humberside Region will be conducted on a company basis or on a geographical basis.

Mr. Chataway

Substantial responsibility for this assistance will be devolved to the regions, but applications will be considered centrally in appropriate cases, including cases with implications extending beyond a single region.

Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Tade and Industry when the new regional industrial director will be appointed for the Yorkshire and Humberside Region.

Mr. Chataway

The appointment of Mr. A. R. M. Graham was announced on Friday, 14th July.

Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when the new industrial development board will be set up in the Yorkshire and Humberside Region.

Mr. Chataway

I hope to make an announcement before very long.