HC Deb 16 May 1990 vol 172 c424W
1989. Mr. Alex Carlile

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what financial support was given in real terms to industry in rural areas in(a) 1979 and (b)

Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

Most Government schemes for financial assistance to industry provide assistance for urban and rural areas alike. Where there are special rural problems in England, the Rural Development Commission, which is grant-aided by my Department, can provide assistance with both economic and social development. The commission's total gross expenditure at 1989–90 prices was £36.6 million in the financial year 1978–79 and £37.2 million in 1989–90.