§ Dr. Godmanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many jobs have been created by the Inverclyde initiative to date; what number are full-time positions; what number are part-time positions; and what percentage of jobs have been filled by male applicants.
§ Mr. Allan StewartThe Inverclyde initiative was launched only at the end of March this year for a period of five years. Its aim of regenerating the economy in Inverclyde cannot be achieved overnight. The action taken to date had concentrated on environmental improvements, preparation of land for industrial development, assisting existing companies to relocate and thereby strengthen their future prospects, and identifying projects which will generate investment and attract business to the area. I have no doubt that new and permanent jobs will be created as these projects come to fruition, but no figures are yet available.