HC Deb 19 July 1967 vol 750 cc259-60W
64. Mr. Sheldon

asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the latest estimate of the cost of investment grants for the calendar year 1967.

Mr. Darling

On the assumption that my hon. Friend is referring to grants to be paid in 1967, I estimate that the cost will be of the order of £200 million. The actual figure will depend not only on the level of eligible investment but also on the rate at which claims are made.

97. Sir E. Bullus

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will eliminate unnecessary questions asked of industrialists in assessing eligibility for investment grants under the Industrial Development Act, 1966.

Mr. Jay

The investment grants offices have been instructed to ask only those questions which are necessary to determine eligibility for grant. Whether a question is necessary must, however, be left to the judgment of the officials who are responsible for paying grants.

98. Sir E. Bullus

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement about the present operation of the Industrial Development Act, 1966 with reference to development grants to industrial firms.

Mr. Jay

I hope to be able to give this information before the House rises for the Summer Recess.

83. Mr. Haseldine

asked the President of the Board of Trade what communication he addressed to the Yorkshire and Humberside Regional Economic Planning Council on the question of investment allowances before 6th July.

Mr. Jay

None. I have, however, discussed the views of the Planning Council on this subject with the Chairman and members of the Council.

Sir E. Bullus

asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the percentage of complaints received from industrialists concerning the questions asked in connection with the eligibility for investment grants.

Mr. Jay

The number of complaints received is negligible in relation to the number of applications.