Mr. Wm. Rossasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what sums were paid in respect of regional employment premium in Northern Ireland in 1975 and 1976; and what will be the saving as a result of his announcement of 22nd July 1976 in 1977.
§ Mr. ConcannonIn Northern Ireland the equivalent of the regional employment premium is the selective employment premium. The amount paid to employers under this scheme in the 1975–76 financial year was £19.35 million. The change of rates payable from 3rd January 1977 will result in a saving in 1976–77 of £0.25 million on the original estimate of £19.50 million. In the 1977–78 financial year it is estimated that, as a result of the change in rates, there will be a saving of £3.5 million, with only £16 million being required.