HC Deb 22 February 1985 vol 73 c630W
Mr. Crowther

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) whether he is satisfied that industrialists in Yorkshire and Humberside region are sufficiently aware of the availability of grants under the support for innovation programme;

(2) what percentage of the total amount of money paid in grants under the support for innovation programme has been received in Yorkshire and Humberide region.

Mr. Butcher

[pursuant to the reply, 18 February 1985, c. 363]: As my hon. Friend announced last November, the Department is currently reviewing its policy in support of industrial research and development. While this exercise is under way, support for certain categories of projects has been curtailed including research and development projects in single firms. I cannot anticipate the outcome of the review but an announcement of future policy will be made shortly.

I hope that firms in all regions accept that the Department's aim is to encourage and assist British trade, industry and commerce. If firms in Yorkshire and Humberside are uncertain about the range of support that is available, I urge them to make contact with the Department's office in Leeds.

Of the amount spent under the support for innovation programme since it was launched on 6 May 1982, firms in Yorkshire and Humberside have accounted for 7.9 per cent. of the offers made, 4.4 per cent. of the value of assistance offered and 3.7 per cent. of the assistance paid.

Mr. Duffy

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will give preferential rates of grant in assisted areas to promote high technology development under the support for innovation programme.

Mr. Butcher

[pursuant to the reply, 18 February 1985, c. 363]: The long term aim of support for innovation is that of wealth creation. In order to maximise this aspect, it is important to support those projects which offer the best potential rate of return to the country. Obviously, this can be done only on a national basis. In so far as we respond to the best projects, the scheme is demand-led.