HC Deb 07 June 1967 vol 747 cc212-3W
91. Mr. J. H. Osborn

asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the total value of investment for which investment grants have been applied for to date for the first and second quarters, respectively, in 1966; and what percentage this is so far of the total investment during these quarters qualifying for a grant.

Mr. Jay

By 2nd June, 1967, applications had been received for grant on expenditure of £169 million and £110 million incurred in the first and second quarters, respectively, of 1966. I estimate that this represents about 65 per cent. and 35 per cent. of the investment during the first and second quarters respectively which would qualify for grant.

97. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on the applicability of the increased investment grants to North-East Scotland's development areas, indicating the number of each applied for and paid to the latest convenient date, and on the proposed regional employment premiums to manufacturing establishments there.

Mr. Darling

The development area rate is available in the whole of Scotland except the Edinburgh, Leith and Portobello employment exchange areas. 2,452 applications had been received from firms in Scotland and 782 payments made by the 2nd June, 1967. Separate figures are not available for North-East Scotland. As regards the last part of the question I would refer my hon. and learned Friend to what was said by my right hon. Friends the First Secretary and the Chancellor of the Exchequer during the debate on the regional employment premium on the 5th June.