§ Mr. Tony Lloydasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of which factors have determined the performance of the economy in the north-west since 1979; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawLike other regions, the north-west suffered the effects of the global recession in manufacturing and consequent industrial restructuring. But it has benefited from falling inflation, lower tax rates, removal of unnecessary restrictions on business and improved incentives. These have been and remain essential features of our policy for industrial revival in the regions.