HC Deb 21 March 1973 vol 853 cc117-8W
Mr. Mudd

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what particular specialised forms of grants and assistance he envisages for Cornish firms prepared to assist in serving and maintaining oil rigs in the Celtic Sea; and if he will list those services eligible for such grants and assistance.

Mr. Anthony Grant

Such firms will be able to apply for the various forms of assistance available under the Industry Act; these include regional development grants, selective financial assistance and shipbuilding construction grants. Qualifying activities for the purposes of the regional development grant scheme are basically manufacturing, mining and construction. Similarly, selective assistance will normally be considered for projects in manufacturing, mining and construction. Selective assistance to the service industries will be concentrated on mobile projects which make a significant contribution to the employment needs of the assisted areas.