§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether it is his policy to refuse to provide assistance under the Industry Act to any industry unless part or all of the share capital of the firms concerned is State-owned.
§ Mr. HefferNo. We have made clear that we intend to build on the system of financial assistance set out in the Industry Act 1972 so that companies in the assisted areas can continue to receive assistance. In appropriate cases we may wish to provide assistance in the form of share capital.
§ Mr. McCartneyasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will publish the latest figures of Government grants to major manufacturing companies over the last few years.
§ Mr. BennI have now received first details of the amount of Government grants paid to 10 leading companies in the years 1970–73 inclusive. Figures for a further 10 companies should be available next month. The figures are as follows: