§ Mr. Alan Williamsasked the Secretary of State for Industry what is the scope of the current review of regional policy; and when he expects it to be completed.
§ Mr. MacGregorMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is carrying out a special review of those areas which in 1979 were special development areas and development areas and from which assisted area status is due to be withdrawn on 1 August this year. This review fulfils the commitment given by my right hon. Friend the then Secretary of State in July 1979 when he announced the Government's regional industrial policy of concentrating on those areas with the most intractable problems of employment. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State expects to make an announcement shortly.