Mr. StephenRoss asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is satisfied that the Development Commission is producing sufficient financial assistance to those wishing to establish light industries in rural areas.
§ Mr. John SilkinI am satisfied that the Development Commission is making an important contribution to the economic well-being of rural areas. The Government are concerned to see this contribution developed, particularly in order to reduce rural depopulation, and are considering proposals from the Development Commission for the coming years, but current financial stringencies may limit the degree to which this can be done. I would, however, add that part of the £20 million announced by the Chancellor for advance factories for employment creation will be made available to the Development Commission.