HC Deb 12 March 1973 vol 852 c237W
26. Mr. Leadbitter

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many representations have been made to him to abolish the regional employment premium in the Northern Region; and what would be the total financial loss to industry in the region if the premium is phased out by 1974.

Mr. Anthony Grant

None. It is not possible to assess the net cost to industry of withdrawing the premium since it is treated as a revenue receipt for tax purposes and the net effect will vary from firm to firm.

Mr. Leadbitter

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what consultations he has had with industry in the Northern Region in respect of the regional employment premium.

Mr. Anthony Grant

The Government will be consulting both sides of industry during the period ahead about implementation of the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor in his 1972 Budget speech that REP would be phased out from September 1974.