§ Mr. Stratton Millsasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much has been paid out to businessmen in relation to the employment grant scheme for city centre traders; how many applications are pending; if he will investigate means of speeding up the scheme without waiting for a full year's annual accounts; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeA total of £33,885 has been paid to traders under the Employment Grant Scheme. Four applications are at present under consideration. The scheme was introduced for one year only and as the relevant accounting year—31st August 1972 to 30th August 1973—has now passed, all applicants who qualify for grant should soon be in a position to furnish the36W required accounts. Little purpose would therefore be served by reducing the accounting period.