HC Deb 24 October 1967 vol 751 c422W
Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Minister of Technology what plans he has for channelling more Government contracts to development areas; and if he will state in statistical terms what has teen achieved in this direction in the last two years.

Mr. Benn

In 1965–66, 3.7 per cent. of the total value of orders placed by my Department was awarded to firms in the old Development Districts. In 1966–67 the figure was 4.3 per cent. including contracts awarded to firms in the new Development Areas from autumn 1966. As part of the Government's overall policy, I intend to pursue vigorously all possibilities for channelling more work into Development Areas, particularly In the research and development field.