§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Industry (1) when it is proposed to make grants available to the foundry industry pursuant to the Budget Statement and the recommendations of the National Economic Development Council for the Ferrous Foundry Industry; and whether the aid will be contingent upon rationalisation of plant;
(2) in view of the probable cost of anti-pollution plant and equipment for the foundry industry under Government regulations, whether it is intended that the grants to the industry should cover the whole or only part of the outlays involved;
(3) of the £50 million per annum required by the foundry industry to modernise, what is the percentage thereof which he estimates will be needed to provide for anti-pollution plant and equipment.
§ Mr. Gregor MackenzieA scheme of financial assistance to encourage the modernisation of the ferrous foundry industry is now being finalised after consultation with appropriate representatives of the industry and the NEDO office. I shall be making a statement about the140W scheme shortly, after which detailed queries can be dealt with.