HC Deb 07 March 1967 vol 742 cc252-3W
88. Mr. Chichester-Clark

asked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what steps Her Majesty's Government are taking to protect the economically weaker areas of the country.

Mr. Shore

The Government is following a systematic policy of encouraging industrial activity in the development areas, including larger investment grants, loans and grants for premises, factories to rent, help with key workers and with training and access to credit. In addition excessive development in the more congested areas is strongly discouraged. Special measures were taken to reduce the impact of the restrictions of last July on the development areas and the Government is continuing to watch the position closely.