HC Deb 21 November 1974 vol 881 cc506-8W
Mr. Russell Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Industry whether consultations have taken place between his Department and the European Commission concerning any studies to alleviate unemployment in any part of the United Kingdom which might be funded by the European Community.

Mr. Benn

My Department is aware of the EEC funds available to help finance studies to alleviate unemployment and other regional issues. Several studies are already in hand, which were described in my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Basildon (Mr. Moonman) on 20th November.—[Vol. 881, c. 436–9.]—My officials maintain close contact with the European Commission on this subject, and consult them as and when we have appropriate projects to submit for joint sponsorship.

Mr. D. E. Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what consultations he has had with the EEC Commission about proposed research studies of the industrial situation of South-East Wales.

Mr. Benn

In informal discussions between my officials and representatives of the Commission about future studies of regional problems within the United Kingdom, references were made to the possibility of studies being undertaken affecting the industrial situation of South-East Wales.

Mr. George Gardiner

asked the Secretary of State for Industry (1) whether he has considered proposals from the EEC Commission for a joint study with the British Steel Corporation of the prospects of future employment of redundant steelworkers; and, if so, what his decision on them has been;

(2) whether he has considered proposals from the EEC Commission for a joint study of certain regional an industrial problems in South Wales; and, if so, what his decision on them has been.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Industry (1) if he has commissioned research work from the Welsh TUC; and, if so, whether the results of this work will satisfy any requirements the EEC may have in this respect;

(2) if the purpose of a recently-announced grant of £20,000 from the Government to the Welsh TUC was to undertake research which, in part, would otherwise have been financed by the EEC;

(3) if he refused the offer of a grant from the EEC towards research into the industrial and regional problems of South Wales; and, if so, if he will give his reasons;

(4) if he has, during his period of office, turned down any offers of financial aid to Wales from the EEC; and, if so, if he will list them.

Mr. Benn

I have nothing to add to my reply to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Basildon (Mr. Moonman) on 20th November.—[Vol. 881, c.436–9.]