§ Mr. Ron Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what representations have been made to him from the Carlisle and Cumberland area, regarding the Northern Regional Economic Planning Council's Report, "An Outline Strategy of Development to 1981", in view of public concern in the Cumberland area about Cumberland's future; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeRepresentations about the Planning Council's Outline Strategy have been received from two local authorities in West Cumberland. I understand that arrangements are being made for a meeting between the Northern Economic Planning Council and Cumberland County Council to discuss the Outline Strategy.
§ Mr. Ron Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what action he is now taking pursuant to the Northern Regional Economic Planning Council's proposals in "An Outline Strategy for Development to 1981, especially as far as Cumberland is concerned.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeThe important proposals contained in the Planning Council's Report are being carefully examined, and the Government's views will be announced in due course.
§ Mr. Ron Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs how much money was raised through selective employment tax in Carlisle and Cumberland, respectively, for each year since its inception; what is the estimated yield for the current financial year; and if he will give corresponding figures for the amount paid out through the regional employment premium and other aids to industry.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeIt is not practicable to provide statistics or estimates of the yield of the selective employment tax and payment, under the range of regional assistance measures for particular areas or localities. Estimates were prepared for the Northern Economic Planning Region, which includes Cumberland, of course, and given in a written Answer on 21st May to my hon. Friend the Member for Blaydon (Mr. Woof).—[Vol. 784 c.154–5.]