HC Deb 05 July 1973 vol 859 c182W
Mr. Bishop

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if, in view of the difficulties facing local authorities and firms with regard to completion of plans to take advantage of regional grants due to expire on 22nd March 1974, he will consider postponing the deadline by 12 months, in order to assist those areas where no other grants are available to attract new industry and to provide more work; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Anthony Grant

These grants were introduced in March 1972 to give quick encouragement to employment-creating investment. Since then unemployment in the derelict land clearance area has fallen from 31,781 to 18,404 and unfilled vacancies have risen from 6,187 to 15,064. Accordingly I am not convinced of the need to extend the deadline for the payment of grant.